Things could be about to hot up for Liverpool in the transfer market as the push to sign PSG ace Bradley Barcola continues
Bradley Barcola
Bradley Barcola is Liverpool's primary transfer target(Image: Getty Images)
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Liverpool's summer transfer business has been unusually subdued so far, but that may not be the case for much longer. While their Premier League rivals have spent freely, the Reds are still waiting to truly ignite the market, with the rest of the traditional 'Big Six' already splashing more than £800million on new signings.
That cautious approach has raised eyebrows, particularly following the arrival of new head coach Andoni Iraola. The Spaniard has added just two players to his squad to date - Victor Munoz, who joined from Osasuna in a £34.5million deal, and Jeremy Jacquet, whose £55m move from Rennes was agreed back in February.
However, Liverpool are expected to accelerate their recruitment before the window closes, with one or two marquee additions - particularly in attack - firmly on the agenda. With that in mind, here's a round-up of the latest transfer news from Anfield.
Barcola bid delay explained
Liverpool have identified PSG winger Bradley Barcola as their top transfer target as they search for the long-term successor to Mohamed Salah. Official talks between the clubs are understood to be underway, but the Reds have yet to submit a formal offer for the France international.
According to Sky Sports, that is a deliberate strategy. Liverpool want to establish what PSG would realistically accept before making their opening move, rather than launching a bid that is immediately rejected and risks negotiations becoming public.
The French champions are thought to value Barcola at around £145m, while Liverpool hope a deal can be struck closer to the £100m mark, leaving a sizeable gap between the two clubs' valuations.
Bradley Barcola celebrates for PSG
Barcola is reportedly keen to join Liverpool(Image: Dan Mullan - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
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PSG clearing way for Barcola exit
Liverpool and PSG may still be some distance apart on valuation, but there are growing signs the French champions are planning for a future without Barcola.
According to reports, PSG have agreed a deal to sign Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche. The versatile attacker, who can operate as an attacking midfielder or out wide, is expected to undergo a medical ahead of a £42.8m move to the Parc des Princes.
Maghnes Akliouche
Maghnes Akliouche is set for a medical at PSG
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The Ligue 1 giants are also closing in on Ajax winger Mika Godts, with reports suggesting a deal worth around £50m is nearing completion. Should both arrivals be finalised, it would further fuel speculation that PSG are preparing to cash in on Barcola.
The 23-year-old has produced 34 goals and 28 assists across the past two seasons at club level, despite fierce competition for places from Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue. Barcola is understood to be keen on a move to Anfield, where he would be offered a more central role in Liverpool's attack and the prospect of regular first-team football.
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