Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola has set his sights on a move to Liverpool after opting against a contract extension with the French champions. The 23-year-old France international has rejected improved terms from PSG despite having two years remaining on the five-year deal he signed in 2023.
According to Foot Mercato, Barcola has prioritised joining the Merseyside club, with club-to-club talks reportedly having already taken place. Liverpool’s sporting project particularly appeals to the Lyon Academy graduate, who is seeking a more prominent role following Mohamed Salah’s exit from Anfield. The Reds view the forward as an ideal candidate to fill the void left by Salah, with his direct running and creative output fitting the profile sought by the recruitment team.
Competition and rejections
While Liverpool appear to lead the race, Arsenal and Bayern Munich also retain interest in the versatile winger. However, Barcola has reportedly turned down the opportunity to sign for Chelsea, removing one potential rival from the bidding.
Changing landscape at PSG
Barcola’s reluctance to renew comes amid a shifting environment at Parc des Princes. Since Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s arrival in January 2025, the France international has featured less frequently under Luis Enrique, often appearing as a squad option during the club’s back-to-back Champions League triumph.
The situation has been complicated further by Real Madrid’s push to sign PSG target Yan Diomandé, a development that has reportedly altered the French club’s summer transfer strategy. With Barcola committed until 2028 but unwilling to extend beyond that date, PSG may be forced to consider offers this window to maximise their return rather than risk losing him for nothing in two years.
The standoff represents a significant blow to PSG’s retention strategy. The club had hoped to secure Barcola’s long-term future with enhanced financial terms, but the player has closed the door on further negotiations, signalling his intent to pursue a new challenge elsewhere.