PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi confirms negotiations with Liverpool over deal for Bradley Barcola

Barcola is Liverpool’s top target in the final weeks of the transfer window, but the two clubs remain some way from agreeing a deal

0 3 1 minute read

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has confirmed negotiations with Liverpool over a deal for Bradley Barcola but “can’t say” whether the winger will leave the club.

Barcola is Liverpool’s top target in the final weeks of the transfer window, but the two clubs remain some way from agreeing a deal.

PSG’s asking price is reportedly as high as €170million (£145.3m), while Liverpool are claimed to be prepared to offer around €115million (£98.3m).

Neither Barcola nor Ibrahim Mbaye featured as PSG beat Aston Villa 2-1 in the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, fuelling speculation over potential moves to Anfield.

Speaking to Canal+ after the game, Nasser Al-Khelaifi confirmed negotiations with Liverpool over Barcola.

“We’re working quietly, we don’t talk about it too much. We do it,” the PSG president explained. “All the players are important to us. I can’t say today whether he’s going to leave or not.”

Asked specifically on the gulf in valuations between Liverpool and PSG, he added: “We’ll see…the discussion is in negotiation.”

Barcola was a peripheral figure during PSG’s celebrations at Salzburg’s Red Bull Arena, where goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue secured victory after Brian Madjo’s debut goal for Villa.

The France international had only returned to pre-season training days earlier and was not expected to play a major role, but Luis Enrique’s selection highlighted the competition for places.

New signing Maghnes Akliouche started on the right wing, with Kvaratskhelia on the left and Doue through the middle, while Ousmane Dembele came off the bench at half-time.

Fabrizio Romano has also reported that “daily conversations” are ongoing between Liverpool and PSG, with the French club reportedly seeking almost €200 million (£171m) for a potential double deal involving Barcola and Mbaye.

“Liverpool’s plan is to sign two wingers by the end of the window, especially if Cody Gakpo goes to Tottenham,” Romano said.

However, it remains unclear whether Liverpool will pursue both players, with Barcola still their priority target and several other options being assessed.

Luis Enrique refuses to comment on Bradley Barcola’s potential switch to Liverpool

Liverpool lower asking price for Curtis Jones ahead of new Inter Milan offer