Liverpool have reportedly received an encouraging signal in their efforts to sign Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, after the Frenchman was left out of PSG's matchday squad for the Trophee des Champions final against Lens.
The 23-year-old has emerged as a priority target for the Reds this summer as manager Andoni Iraola looks to add firepower to his attacking options with the Premier League season just a week away. Liverpool's lack of depth in the final third has become a growing concern among supporters, and Barcola's absence from PSG's squad in the French Super Cup showdown has fuelled speculation that a departure could be on the horizon.
PSG boss Luis Enrique opted for a front three of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Maghnes Akliouche and Desire Doue at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, with Ousmane Dembele named among the substitutes. Barcola, however, was nowhere to be seen on the bench, intensifying talk of an imminent exit from the Parc des Princes.
Adding weight to the speculation, reports have indicated that Barcola has rejected a new contract offer from PSG, making a summer transfer increasingly likely. The Ligue 1 champions are said to be holding out for a fee in the region of £145 million for the winger, who impressed for France during their run to the World Cup semi-finals earlier this year.
PSG appear to be preparing for life without Barcola, with the club also poised to complete the signing of Mika Godts from Ajax to strengthen their attacking ranks further.
For Liverpool, landing Barcola would represent a significant statement of intent as Iraola begins his first campaign at the helm following his move to Anfield. The club has been relatively quiet in the transfer market so far this summer, having brought in just two senior signings. Victor Munoz arrived from Osasuna, while Ronald Araujo joined on a season-long loan from Barcelona. Jeremy Jacquet, signed from Rennes back in January, has only recently linked up with his new teammates after being sidelined by injury for much of the past year.
Liverpool's attacking department has also seen notable departures, with Mohamed Salah's future on the right wing still unresolved after no direct replacement has been brought in. The club has additionally lost defensive stalwarts Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate, both of whom left on free transfers.
With the transfer window edging closer to its conclusion and the new season fast approaching, Liverpool's pursuit of Barcola could prove pivotal in shaping their attacking options for the campaign ahead. Should PSG's stance soften amid the winger's contract standoff, Iraola may finally get the marquee forward he has been seeking to bolster his frontline.
As things stand, all eyes will be on how PSG handle the situation with Barcola in the coming days, with Liverpool positioned and ready to capitalize should the opportunity arise.
Based on reporting from Standard Football.