Liverpool Interest in Ibrahim Mbaye Remains Live as PSG Forward Decision Looms

Liverpool’s interest in Ibrahim Mbaye remains genuine, but David Lynch has cautioned against assuming the PSG forward is already the club’s definitive second attacking target.

Speaking to Dave Davis on Anfield Index’s Media Matters podcast, Lynch discussed the 18 year old after reports of Liverpool talks involving the player and Jorge Mendes.

Mbaye has emerged as one of the more intriguing names in Liverpool’s forward search, particularly with the club also pursuing Bradley Barcola from PSG.

However, Lynch made clear that Liverpool are considering more than one possibility.

Liverpool Definitely Like Mbaye

Davis raised the reports surrounding Mbaye and noted that little appeared to have moved publicly since the initial story emerged.

Lynch’s response was revealing.

“When I kind of asked about it, it was kind of, I was cautioned against saying, like, this guy’s the only option that they want or whatever,” he said.

That does not mean Liverpool’s interest is superficial.

Lynch was clear about that point.

“They 100% like him,” he said. “He’s a player that’s a potential to come in alongside Barcola.”

That distinction matters.

Mbaye is very much on Liverpool’s radar, but the club appear to be assessing a wider group of possibilities before deciding how to proceed.

“There’s a few kind of spinning plates going on in terms of other options,” Lynch explained.

He added that some of those alternatives may not yet have appeared publicly.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we don’t have a clue about the names,” he said.

Barcola Deal Could Shape Mbaye Decision

One of the biggest factors is Liverpool’s ongoing pursuit of Bradley Barcola.

Lynch suggested that the amount Liverpool eventually spend on Barcola could have a direct influence on what happens next.

“I think a lot comes down to what are you going to spend on Barcola, what’s the kind of transfer kitty look like after that move’s been completed,” he said.

For that reason, Lynch believes Barcola currently sits ahead of Mbaye in Liverpool’s priorities.

“I just think Barcola is kind of the main focus at the moment maybe,” he said, while immediately stressing: “That’s just me speculating by the way.”

Mbaye therefore remains under consideration, but Liverpool may need clarity on Barcola before committing significant money elsewhere.

Lynch summed up the uncertainty by saying: “We’ll see.”

He added: “They definitely like him. It’s just whether you can get all the ducks in a row and get the both of them over the line or whether they go down a different route outside of Barcola.”

PSG Contract Situation Could Matter

Davis also raised Mbaye’s recent performances and the possibility that PSG could reconsider their position if the youngster continues to impress.

Lynch pointed towards the player’s contract situation as an important factor.

“He’s got two years remaining on his contract, I believe, and not necessarily willing to sign a new deal because he wants to get out and play a bit more,” Lynch said.

According to Lynch, the pathway at PSG may be influencing Mbaye’s thinking.

“It doesn’t feel that pathway is there at PSG,” he said.

That could help explain why a sale remains possible.

“I think a willingness to sell there,” Lynch added.

He also suggested PSG may find it difficult to substantially change their valuation because discussions involving other clubs have already helped establish the price.

“They’ve kind of set the price, haven’t they, with other clubs,” he said.

Two Forward Signings Remain Liverpool Aim

Another significant detail from Lynch was his understanding of Liverpool’s broader plans.

“I know that they do want two forwards,” he said.

That leaves open the possibility of both Barcola and Mbaye arriving, though Lynch repeatedly stressed that Liverpool are still evaluating their options.

“I’m just interested to see what happens with this one,” he said, “whether other players do come onto the radar or this is the one that you pull the trigger on.”

Mbaye’s age also provides Liverpool with another practical advantage.

Lynch highlighted “that kind of homegrown aspect” and explained that “he wouldn’t take up a spot this season”.

Liverpool therefore have several reasons to retain their interest.

Mbaye is a player they clearly admire, he could potentially arrive alongside Barcola, and Liverpool want two forwards.

For now, however, Lynch’s comments suggest the PSG youngster remains an option rather than a completed plan.

The next move may depend on what Liverpool spend on Barcola, which alternatives emerge, and whether they ultimately decide Mbaye is the player on whom they want to “pull the trigger”.