Liverpool Tracking Bradley Barcola as Forward Planning Continues
Liverpool’s transfer thinking is beginning to sharpen into focus as attention turns from short term turbulence to long term squad evolution. According to reporting credited to Daily Briefing, the club are showing a interest in Paris Saint Germain winger Bradley Barcola, a Champions League winner who had previously considered a move to Anfield earlier this year.
This development arrives against a noisy backdrop. Mohamed Salah’s post match interview following the 3-3 draw at Leeds has dominated headlines, raising familiar questions about succession planning on Liverpool’s right flank. Even if Salah fulfils the remaining 18 months of his contract, recruitment staff are clearly mapping future scenarios, with Antoine Semenyo reportedly close to agreeing personal terms.
What stands out in this report is that Liverpool’s thinking does not stop on one wing.
Barcola Profile Fits Slot’s Forward Template
Barcola’s situation at PSG makes him an intriguing market opportunity. While admired by Real Madrid and both Manchester clubs, he is not a guaranteed starter under Luis Enrique, opening the door to potential movement. PSG are said to be keen on extending his contract, but sources suggest the France international would could be assessing his options.
That openness matters. Fabrice Hawkins’ claim that Barcola had “seriously considered” Liverpool in the summer window hints at groundwork already laid. From a recruitment perspective, that places Liverpool in a strong position if conditions align in 2026.
Barcola’s output this season has been mixed. Five goals in the current campaign, only two since mid September, all in Ligue 1. On the surface, that may appear modest, but Liverpool’s data driven model rarely fixates on raw numbers alone.
PSG Stance Could Define Timeline
Whether Liverpool can realistically tempt Barcola will depend heavily on PSG’s resolve and the player’s own appetite for change. A Champions League winner last season, Barcola may yet be convinced that Paris offers the best platform.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a supporter’s perspective, this report feels both reassuring and telling. Reassuring because it confirms Liverpool are already planning beyond Salah, not emotionally but strategically. Telling because Barcola is not a like for like replacement, he represents a broader evolution of the forward line.
Slot’s Liverpool thrives on fluidity. Wide players are expected to score, create, press and rotate positions seamlessly. Barcola’s underlying data screams suitability for that system. The lack of left sided depth has been a quiet concern all season, masked only by availability and results, and it feels inevitable that recruitment will address it.
There is also an excitement factor here. A 23 year old Champions League winner, statistically elite across Europe, and previously tempted by Liverpool, that is exactly the profile fans expect from a club operating at the top of the game.
Of course, PSG rarely sell cheaply, and competition will be fierce. But Liverpool winning the league under a new manager changes the conversation. This no longer feels like speculative interest. It feels like preparation.
If Barcola does become attainable in 2026, few supporters would question the logic. It would signal continuity, ambition and a clear plan for life after Salah, whenever that moment finally arrives.
