Liverpool could have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of Ibrahim Mbaye, with suggestions that the Paris Saint-Germain winger could potentially be available for as little as €40 million.
According to Ben Jacobs, there have been suggestions that Mbaye’s price could be around €40m, although PSG sources have denied that figure.
Jacobs believes a higher fee may ultimately be required, but the possibility of Mbaye being available for €40m would certainly be encouraging news for Liverpool.
€40m could change everything
Liverpool have reportedly identified Mbaye as one of their targets as they look to strengthen their wide attacking options this summer.
The Reds are understood to have spoken with his representatives, with the teenager attracting significant interest following his emergence at PSG.
There had been suggestions that signing Mbaye could require a huge fee.
However, if Liverpool could negotiate a deal anywhere close to €40m, it would make the situation considerably more interesting.
For a player with Mbaye’s potential, that could eventually prove to be excellent value.
Liverpool want two wingers
The Mbaye situation is particularly interesting because Liverpool reportedly want two new wingers this summer.
Bradley Barcola remains a major target, while Mbaye is also being considered.
If Liverpool were able to bring both players to Anfield, it would completely transform Iraola’s attacking options.
Barcola would provide immediate quality and explosive pace, while Mbaye would represent an investment in the future.
Mbaye and Ngumoha could be special
One of the most exciting possibilities would be seeing Mbaye develop alongside Rio Ngumoha.
Both are young, fearless attacking players who aren’t afraid to take defenders on.
Ngumoha has already shown during pre-season that he has the ability to make an impact despite his age.
Mbaye could potentially follow a similar pathway.
Having both players developing under Iraola could give Liverpool two exciting long-term options on the wings.
PSG still hold the cards
The €40m figure needs to be treated with caution.
Jacobs has made it clear that PSG sources have denied that Mbaye can be signed for €40m, and his expectation is that a higher price may ultimately be necessary.
So Liverpool shouldn’t assume they can simply walk into Paris and sign Mbaye for that amount.
But the fact that the figure is being discussed at all is interesting.
And if PSG’s valuation does come down, Liverpool could suddenly find themselves in a very strong position.
Could €40m be a bargain?
That’s the big question.
Mbaye is still incredibly young and has plenty of development ahead of him.
But if Liverpool genuinely believe he has the potential to become a top-level winger, €40m could eventually look like a bargain.
Especially in a transfer market where established young attackers can command enormous fees.
For now, though, the situation remains unclear.
PSG deny the €40m valuation, while Jacobs believes a higher price will probably be needed.
But Liverpool supporters will certainly be hoping that the lower figure proves closer to reality.
Barcola and Mbaye for the future of Liverpool’s attack?
Now that would be some statement.
Jamie (The Kopite View)