Liverpool is exploring alternative transfer targets, with Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola emerging as a prominent option. This comes as their primary target, Yan Diomande, has indicated a preference to join PSG.
Diomande, an Ivory Coast international, has reportedly chosen PSG as his preferred destination if he departs RB Leipzig this summer. He is said to believe in the project led by chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi and football advisor Luis Campos, and wishes to play under head coach Luis Enrique. Diomande reportedly views a move to the French capital as providing the best opportunity to consistently compete for trophies.
PSG is currently in negotiations with RB Leipzig for Diomande’s transfer. The German club is seeking a valuation significantly higher than what Liverpool was prepared to offer. Liverpool had expressed a willingness to put forward a package for Diomande, but Leipzig was unwilling to accept that offer. Reports suggest Leipzig has been holding out for a higher figure while also attempting to secure new terms with Diomande, who signed a contract until 2030 when he joined from Spanish side Leganes last summer.
Diomande is currently participating in the World Cup with Ivory Coast and is expected to feature in their upcoming match against Norway in the round-of-32 stage. Last season, he scored 12 goals and provided nine assists in 33 league matches, contributing to Leipzig’s third-place finish in the Bundesliga and qualification for the Champions League.
Barcola’s uncertain future at PSG
As Diomande appears set for PSG, Liverpool has turned its attention to other options, with Barcola featuring highly on their list. Barcola’s future at PSG is reportedly uncertain due to frustrations over being overlooked for selection in significant matches, including the Champions League final victory against Arsenal.
Reports indicate that Barcola could depart PSG this summer if his dissatisfaction with his situation persists upon his return from the World Cup with France. While PSG ideally aims to retain the winger, they are not expected to impede his departure if he desires a move and a club meets their valuation. The Ligue 1 club is not anticipated to allow him to leave for a low fee.
Barcola has two years remaining on his current contract, which could make this an opportune time for PSG to consider a transfer if he does not extend his deal. Arsenal has also been monitoring Barcola, though their current priority for the left-wing position is understood to be Morgan Rogers at Aston Villa.
Liverpool’s transfer strategy
Liverpool has already secured the signing of winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna. The club is now exploring further options as they implement their plans to replace Mohamed Salah, who has been released. The Premier League side has been reluctant to increase their offer for Diomande, which seems to have cleared the path for PSG in their pursuit of the winger.
PSG has reportedly agreed to a contract with Diomande that extends until 2031, with club-to-club negotiations between PSG and Leipzig ongoing. Diomande’s rapid ascent in football has seen him move from DME Sports Academy in Florida to impressing at the World Cup. He spent three months with Leganes’ reserves before making his professional debut against Real Madrid. His performances, particularly his dribbling ability, quickly caught attention.
After just 500 minutes of play, RB Leipzig acquired him, and he has continued to excel as a key attacking player on the flanks for the Bundesliga club. He has scored three goals in 13 appearances for Ivory Coast, contributing to their progress in the Africa Cup of Nations and the current World Cup.
Source: skysports.com
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