Liverpool renews negotiations for Barcola before the transfer window closes

Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool have reignited discussions over the transfer of Bradley Barcola on Tuesday, as the English club attempts once again to strike a deal before the transfer window closes. An initial offer, estimated at around £90 million (€122.3 million), was rejected by PSG earlier this month, with the French club demanding £135 million (€184.2 million) for the French international winger.

A potential departure of a player, linked with Tottenham and Manchester City, could provide Liverpool with the necessary funds to sign Barcola, who has two years left on his contract. The Merseyside club has already agreed terms on a personal level with the player, who is considered their top summer priority. However, Barcola is in no rush to leave the French capital and is not opposed to staying at the club. All parties now believe a deal is possible before the transfer window closes on September 1, though further steps remain to be taken. PSG is awaiting a new, improved offer within 24 to 48 hours, which could prove decisive. On Sunday, PSG’s sporting director, Luis Campos, acknowledged that the transfer window remains very open for the club, with many changes still possible. Barcola, who will turn 24 next week, featured in all eight of France’s matches at the World Cup this summer. However, he has yet to play for PSG in the three matches the club has played so far this season.

Dembélé rested by PSG

Additionally, PSG announced on Tuesday that Ousmane Dembélé would miss Friday’s match against Lille after being granted “a period of rest.” The 2023 Ballon d’Or winner has seen limited game time since returning from the World Cup with France, playing no more than 45 minutes in each of the first three matches of the season. “In agreement with the coach and the sporting director, Ousmane Dembélé will benefit from a period of rest in the coming days,” the club stated in a press release. “He will resume training with the group on Monday.” This news comes as Liverpool looks to strengthen its squad before the transfer window closes. The English club is banking on this transfer to bolster its attack, while PSG must manage absences and squad rotations. Luis Campos recalled that the transfer window was not yet closed for the Parisian club, leaving room for doubt about potential moves until the deadline. Barcola, although a priority for Liverpool, remains contractually linked to PSG until 2028. His departure would therefore depend on ongoing negotiations and the Parisian club's financial needs. The player, who came through the ranks at Olympique Lyonnais, has already been courted by several European clubs this season. His technical profile and versatility in attack make him a sought-after target, particularly in the English league. Talks between the two clubs could therefore gather pace in the coming hours, with a view to reaching an agreement before September 1st.