Cody Gakpo could become a key player in Liverpool’s reported pursuit of PSG forward Bradley Barcola this summer
Liverpool’s plans for Bradley Barcola could depend on the future of Cody Gakpo as the club continues to reshape its attacking options ahead of the 2026-27 season.
According to Onze Mondial, Barcola has informed Paris Saint-Germain that he does not intend to sign a new contract and has identified Liverpool as his preferred destination, while the Reds have already opened discussions with the French champions over a potential transfer.
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Recent reports have also indicated Liverpool are preparing to intensify their pursuit of the France international this week.
The French outlet claims, however, that Liverpool may need an attacking departure before a deal can progress.
Gakpo has emerged as a potential candidate after attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur, although any move would be complicated by the Dutch forward’s long-term contract, which runs until 2030.
According to Onze Mondial, Barcola is not prepared to force an exit from PSG despite his desire to join Liverpool. With two years remaining on his current deal, the winger is reportedly willing to wait if a transfer cannot be completed during this window, leaving negotiations dependent on developments involving Liverpool’s own squad.
The report states: “Once the Diomande deal, or another target, is finalised, negotiations could accelerate. It will also depend on departures from other clubs. At Liverpool, for example, a transfer of Cody Gakpo to Tottenham could change the game. However, Barcola will not force a move this summer. With two years remaining on his contract, he knows that time is on his side.”
Liverpool’s interest in Barcola has gathered momentum throughout the summer. Various reports earlier this month indicated that the winger had made it clear he wanted to leave PSG in search of regular football, while fresh contact between the clubs was also reported.
More recent updates suggest Liverpool are preparing a decisive push for the 23-year-old, who remains one of the club’s priority attacking targets.
The club’s internal planning could also influence any decision over Gakpo. Highly rated teenager Rio Ngumoha is expected to take on a more prominent first-team role during the new campaign after impressing the coaching staff, increasing competition in Liverpool’s forward line under head coach Andoni Iraola.
Despite that, Liverpool are not under immediate pressure to sanction Gakpo’s departure. The Netherlands international remains under a long-term contract until 2030 and has been linked with a move away only through external speculation rather than any confirmed desire from the club to sell.
Bradley Barcola
Cody Gakpo