Liverpool cannot afford another Alexander Isak transfer saga as the Reds pursue Bradley Barcola, with delays risking the forward arriving unprepared for the new season
04:00, 31 Jul 2026
Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain FC looks on during the Paris Saint-Germain FC Training Session ahead the UEFA Champions League Final match between Paris Saint-Germain FC and Arsenal FC
Liverpool can't risk Bradley Barcola's situation developing into a saga similar to Alexander Isak's(Image: Getty Images)
Liverpool's pursuit of Bradley Barcola has the potential to become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer, but the Reds must be careful not to repeat the mistakes that came with the Alexander Isak saga.
There is no doubt that Barcola would represent an exciting addition to Andoni Iraola's squad. The French forward is the Reds' top target this summer and has emerged as one of Europe's most talented attackers, offering pace, direct running and the versatility to operate across the frontline.
There has been a growing argument in some quarters that Liverpool should look elsewhere for its attacking reinforcements. Some have questioned whether Barcola is worth pursuing, either because of the expected cost of the deal or concerns over his preferred position. But he seems the most likely option to replace Mohamed Salah.
However, Liverpool's recruitment team must ensure the deal does not become a drawn-out process that creates more problems than it solves.
The danger is that if negotiations drag on for most of the summer, Barcola could find himself in a difficult position at Paris Saint-Germain. Should Luis Enrique decide to freeze him out of the squad while uncertainty surrounds his future, the forward could arrive at Anfield short of match fitness and needing time to get up to speed.
That scenario would feel familiar to Liverpool supporters after the complications surrounding Isak. With Newcastle refusing to budge over its prized asset after rejecting a $148 million offer from the Reds, Isak broke his silence for the first time that summer with a bombshell statement on Instagram.
The 26-year-old claimed the club had failed to honor promises made to him and suggested that a separation would be the best outcome for both parties after months of uncertainty. His exit was eventually approved on transfer deadline day, with Liverpool completing a deal worth a British-record $169 million to bring him to Anfield.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MAY 09: Alexander Isak of Liverpool looks on while sitting on the substitutes bench prior to the Premier League match between Liverpool and Chelsea at Anfield on May 09, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Alexander Isak struggled to make an impact last season(Image: Gareth Copley, Getty Images)
Despite his quality, the lack of a proper pre-season meant he was not immediately ready to make the impact expected of him. Before suffering a fractured leg in a clash with Tottenham last December, which ruled him out for more than three months, Isak had been enjoying a strong run of form.
However, after returning from injury, the Swedish striker struggled to regain his sharpness and rediscover his previous rhythm.
Liverpool cannot afford another situation where a major summer signing arrives without the preparation needed to hit the ground running.
After a dismal title defense last season, where the Reds finished fifth in the Premier League to scrape Champions League soccer, Liverpool is in desperate need of a strong start to the 2026/27 campaign.
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A player like Barcola needs time on the training pitch, competitive minutes and the chance to build chemistry with his new teammates. Those factors are particularly important for an attacker adapting to a new league, a new manager and a new tactical system.
Of course, Liverpool should not panic and overpay simply to complete a deal quickly. Patience is often required when negotiating for elite talent, and the club must protect its long-term interests. But there is also a point where waiting too long creates unnecessary risks.
The Isak saga should serve as a warning. Liverpool has the opportunity to add another exciting attacking talent to its squad, but the Reds cannot allow the same problems to follow them into another summer.