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Liverpool identify Bradley Barcola as alternative as Yan Diomande edges closer to PSG move
09th July, 2026 10:00 AM
Liverpool are weighing up a move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as they prepare for the possibility of missing out on long-term target Yan Diomande.
The Reds had placed the highly rated 19-year-old at the top of their wishlist, but PSG are now leading the race after the Ivory Coast international expressed his desire to join the French champions.
Negotiations are ongoing between PSG and RB Leipzig, while Liverpool have refused to match the Bundesliga club’s asking price. The Premier League side were prepared to spend up to £86 million, but Leipzig are demanding a considerably higher fee, making it increasingly difficult for Liverpool to complete the transfer.
PSG have already reached an agreement in principle with Diomande over a contract running until 2031. Discussions between the clubs have also included the possibility of the winger returning to Leipzig on loan after completing the transfer.
Leipzig keen to keep Diomande
Despite the speculation, Leipzig remain determined to keep the teenager for another season.
Managing director Marcel Schafer insisted the German club has no plans to sell him this summer.
“Our clear intention is that Yan will play for RB Leipzig next year. And we won’t move away from that,” he said.
“We know exactly what we have in him. Of course, if Yan continues like this, the time will come when we allow him to take the next step – but not this year.
“We hold all the cards. So, to make it clear once again: Diomande will remain an RB Leipzig player.”
Diomande also addressed the growing transfer rumours before Ivory Coast’s World Cup round-of-32 clash with Norway, explaining that his immediate focus is on international duty.
“First of all, like I said, my dream is playing for my country and making history with my country,” he said.
“I don’t have Instagram anymore, I don’t have TikTok, so I can’t see anything but I expect to leave [RB Leipzig] of course.
“I have an agent who’s going to manage the rest but for me the most important thing right now is focusing on the World Cup with my country and making history with them.”
With uncertainty surrounding Diomande’s future, Liverpool have stepped up their search for alternative options, with Barcola emerging as one of the club’s preferred candidates.
The Merseyside club have already strengthened their attacking options by signing Victor Munoz from Osasuna as they continue planning for life after Mohamed Salah.
Barcola’s future
Barcola’s future in Paris remains unresolved after the 23-year-old became frustrated by his lack of involvement in several of PSG’s biggest matches, including the UEFA Champions League final victory over Arsenal.
Reports earlier this month indicated the France international could seek a move if his situation remains unchanged after returning from World Cup duty.
Although PSG would rather retain the winger, the club is prepared to consider offers if Barcola decides he wants a fresh challenge and an interested club meets their valuation. They are not expected to sanction a cut-price transfer.
With just two years left on his current contract, this summer could represent PSG’s best opportunity to secure a substantial transfer fee should Barcola decline to sign an extension.
Arsenal have also monitored the French forward, although the Gunners are currently understood to be prioritising Aston Villa winger Morgan Rogers in their search for reinforcements on the left flank.
