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Liverpool is reportedly not pursuing Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, despite recent speculation. Following the sale of Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich last month, rumors have been rife that the Reds are in the market for another left-sided attacker.
Barcola, aged 22, was a regular in PSG's starting line-up at the beginning of last season, but his playing time dwindled following the high-profile signing of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli in January. Indeed, both Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue were favoured on the wings for the Champions League final, and this trend continued into the Club World Cup, with Barcola only starting two matches in the revamped FIFA tournament.
Speculation about a potential move to Liverpool for Barcola has been mounting, given the Reds' long-standing admiration for the French international. Barcola has been with PSG since August 2023, having begun his career at Lyon.
During his tenure at the Parc des Princes, he has netted 26 goals and provided 30 assists in 103 appearances.
However, The Athletic reports that senior figures at Liverpool have dismissed claims that they are targeting Barcola for a summer transfer. It's suggested that Arne Slot's team believe that bringing in a left-sided forward of Barcola's calibre could hinder the progress of teenage prodigy Rio Ngumoha.
Ngumoha, now 16, is considered part of Slot's senior squad after an impressive pre-season. He scored twice and provided two assists in four matches during the club's preparations for the new campaign.
Liverpool's interest in Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak remains, despite the recent £46m departure of Darwin Nunez to Al-Hilal. The Reds had previously made an official bid of a cool £110million for the Swedish international earlier this month, but it was turned down by Newcastle.
Despite reports from the ECHO that Arne Slot's team have no plans to make a second offer - due to Newcastle's response to the initial bid - a move could still be on the cards this summer.
Isak, however, is resolute in his decision not to play for Newcastle again, reportedly incensed over a 'broken contract promise' that led him to decide last season would be his final one at St James' Park.
Amanda Staveley, former Newcastle director and minority co-owner, had promised Isak a discussion about a new contract, which would have been well-deserved given his performances. However, Staveley left the Magpies in July 2024 before any negotiations could take place.
The arrival of Paul Mitchell as Newcastle's sporting director saw a change in tune regarding that promise, much to Isak's annoyance. Mitchell, formerly of Tottenham, cited the club's need to adhere to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Even if Newcastle refuse to sell and he remains at St James' Park post-transfer window, the striker is adamant that his time on Tyneside is over and has no desire to rejoin the squad.
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