Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has made his decision on Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye ahead of tonight’s Trophée des Champions meeting with Lens.
Both forwards have been included in PSG’s travelling squad for the fixture at Stade Bollaert-Delelis, however neither player has been handed a starting role by Enrique.
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Barcola and Mbaye haven’t even been named among the substitutes.
The decision will be of particular interest to Liverpool supporters given the growing speculation surrounding both players and their potential moves to Anfield this summer.
DaveOCKOP.com exclusively revealed in July that Liverpool had submitted an opening bid for Barcola, with the Reds continuing negotiations with PSG over a potential agreement.
The offer is in the region £100M of plus various add-ons tied to Premier League and Champions League successes the club may achieve.
However, the Parisian outfit are pushing back on the add-ons, as they want more achievable clauses relating to things like player performance for example
They feel that the current propositions from Liverpool are harder to achieve, as Champions League success is hardly guaranteed but is realistic. Back-and-forth between the clubs will continue.
Liverpool do remain strongly linked to the France international, who has emerged as one of their leading attacking targets following Mohamed Salah’s departure.
Mbaye has also been linked with a move to Liverpool, with the 18-year-old Senegal international emerging as another option being considered by the Reds.
Reports claim Liverpool are preparing an approach for the youngster, who is valued by PSG at more than €50million.
Mbaye enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season, making 29 appearances for PSG and contributing three goals and two assists as Enrique’s side secured Ligue 1 and Champions League glory.
The teenager has also attracted interest from several other European clubs, increasing the possibility of a summer departure if regular first-team opportunities become difficult to secure.
Their absence will provide further intrigue for Liverpool supporters, particularly with the transfer window entering its final stages.
No Bradley Barcola or Ibrahim Mbaye as PSG face Lens in the Champions Trophy.❌ pic.twitter.com/JHkvCEDmHv