Liverpool are currently leading the race to sign Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, with the club expressing confidence in securing the 23-year-old ahead of Arsenal and Bayern Munich. The move marks a potential major investment for the Reds as they look to reshape their attacking options for the 2026-27 season. Barcola, who impressed with four goal contributions at the World Cup with France this summer, is heavily linked with an exit from the Champions League holders.
Liverpool’s Pursuit of Bradley Barcola
Liverpool have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Bradley Barcola, according to reports. While the Premier League side faces competition from Arsenal and Bayern Munich, the Reds are reportedly in the driving seat to land the 23-year-old French forward. Barcola is regarded as one of Europe’s best wingers, but he was only a bit-part player for PSG last season as he was behind Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue in the pecking order. This has led to speculation linking him with an exit, particularly as PSG looks to sign Yan Diomande and/or Maghnes Akliouche this summer.
The club is actively seeking to bolster its forward line following the departure of veteran Mohamed Salah, with the team remaining confident in beating their rivals to the deal. Although Ligue 1 champions PSG are reluctant to let the 23-year-old leave, reports indicate that the player could force a move to Merseyside to complete a Premier League switch.
Financial Implications and Squad Strategy
The potential transfer reflects a broader strategy under new boss Andoni Iraola. Stefan Borson, a former Manchester City financial adviser, noted that the club is expected to spend quite big ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson suggested that Barcola is likely just the beginning of a larger overhaul at Anfield.
Liverpool haven't really done anything yet either, but they will do. I think they definitely will do,
Borson said. They'll probably sign [Bradley] Barcola as a minimum, I would think. So, Liverpool are going to spend quite big.
The squad is currently undergoing transition after finishing fifth in the Premier League last season and being knocked out of the Champions League quarter-finals. Beyond the pursuit of Barcola, the club has already welcomed Jeremy Jacquet, who signed a pre-contract in February, as well as Victor Munoz this summer. Liverpool have also joined the race for Roma and France star Manu Kone, as well as Morocco star Ayyoub Bouaddi.
Arsenal’s Transfer Market Adjustments
Arsenal, meanwhile, are recalibrating their transfer plans. The Gunners were initially linked with a move for Barcola after missing out on the signing of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa in a deal reportedly worth £117m. Arsenal are also navigating a situation regarding Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, 22. While the club is edging ahead in that pursuit, the England Under-21 international has expressed concerns regarding potential playing time at the Emirates. Furthermore, Arsenal are not ruling out the sale of their captain, 27-year-old Norway midfielder Martin Odegaard, and will listen to offers.
Broader Premier League Movement
The market remains fluid for other top-flight clubs as well. Chelsea has been involved in significant activity, including a rejected £64m bid for Alex Scott, with the player keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. Additionally, the Blues have set an asking price of approximately £17m for defender Axel Disasi, 28, after Roma asked about his availability.
Manchester United is reportedly exploring a move for Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, 23, who missed out on a place in France’s World Cup squad. Meanwhile, Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes, 31, has decided to commit his future to Manchester United, with talks around a new deal ongoing. Elsewhere, Besiktas are trying to sign English midfielder Joe Willock, 26, who is in the final year of his contract at Newcastle and will not be offered a new deal. Fulham have also opened negotiations with Real Madrid over a potential move for striker Gonzalo Garcia, 22.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Forward Line
As the 2026-27 season approaches, the club must finalize these marquee additions to address concerns in both the goalkeeper position—given rumors of an exit for Alisson—and the attacking front. With Hugo Ekitike sidelined for months, a new striker remains a priority, and Darwin Nunez has also appeared in recent transfer links. The club continues to monitor PSG’s pursuit of Maghnes Akliouche, for whom they have made offers in the region of £34m, as such arrivals could dictate the availability of their targets.
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