Liverpool’s pursuit of a marquee forward has taken a dramatic turn. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola has emerged as the Reds’ “dream option” should their efforts to sign Newcastle’s Alexander Isak fall through. With the Premier League season fast approaching, the pressure is mounting at Anfield to finalize a decisive attacking reinforcement.
Isak Standoff: A Transfer Tug-of-War
Liverpool’s interest in Alexander Isak is well-documented, but Newcastle United are proving to be formidable negotiators.
Key Developments
- Initial Bid Rejected: Liverpool’s €120 million offer was turned down
- Newcastle’s Valuation: Reportedly closer to €150 million
- Isak’s Stance: Very interested in joining Liverpool; training alone amid speculation
- Newcastle’s Motivation: After losing out on targets like Benjamin Šeško to Manchester United, they’re unwilling to lose their star striker without a top-tier replacement
The drawn-out nature of the negotiations has forced Liverpool to explore alternatives.
Bradley Barcola: The Contingency Plan
With the Isak deal hitting a wall, Liverpool have identified Bradley Barcola as their ideal Plan B. The 22-year-old French winger is fresh off a Champions League triumph with PSG and is admired for his pace, creativity, and tactical intelligence.
Why Barcola Fits Liverpool’s System
- ⚡ Blistering pace and elite dribbling
- 🎯 Vision and link-up play in the final third
- 🔁 Versatility across the front line (LW, RW, False 9)
- 🏆 Champions League winner and respected figure at PSG
Barcola’s profile aligns perfectly with Arne Slot’s attacking philosophy, making him a natural fit for Liverpool’s evolving front line.
PSG’s Position: No Easy Exit
Despite Liverpool’s interest, a move for Barcola would be anything but straightforward.
Transfer Barriers
- No Formal Contact Yet: Liverpool have not approached PSG or Barcola’s agent
- PSG’s Stance: No intention to sell; Barcola is valued highly after his European success
- Player’s Preference: Happy at PSG, well-respected, and recently extended his contract
- Estimated Price Tag: Likely in excess of €100 million
Unless Liverpool submit a mammoth bid, PSG are unlikely to entertain negotiations.
Financial Context: Room to Move
Liverpool’s summer transfer activity has been aggressive, and the sale of Darwin Núñez to Al-Hilal has freed up both funds and squad space.
| Player | Status | Fee |
| Darwin Núñez | Sold to Al-Hilal | €95M |
| Alexander Isak | Bid rejected | €120M |
| Bradley Barcola | Targeted | Estimated €100–110M |
The club has the financial flexibility to pursue either option, but time is running out.
Transfer Window Deadline Looms
With the window closing on September 1, Liverpool must act swiftly. The club’s patience in the Isak pursuit is commendable, but they risk entering the season without a new attacker if negotiations stall further.
Potential Outcomes
- ✅ Isak deal revived with improved bid
- 🔁 Barcola bid launched if Newcastle hold firm
- ❌ No signing—Liverpool rely on internal options like Gakpo, Jota, and Szoboszlai
The next few days could shape Liverpool’s attacking identity for years to come.
Final Word
Liverpool’s transfer window is reaching its crescendo. Whether it’s Alexander Isak or Bradley Barcola, the next move will define the club’s ambitions under Arne Slot. With the Premier League kickoff just days away, the urgency is real—and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
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