Liverpool is facing a huge week in the transfer market with Bradley Barcola the chief target for sporting director Richard Hughes, to bolster the roster under Andoni Iraola
Bradley Barcola in World Cup action for France
Bradley Barcola in World Cup action for France(Image: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant says Reds sporting director Richard Hughes simply has to pay the money to sign Bradley Barcola from PSG this week.
The French forward is the top target as the September 1 transfer deadline edges closer, but there has been no breakthrough in negotiations just yet. Liverpool looked like it was lacking quality in wide areas at St James' Park as it drew 2-2 with Newcastle, with Dominik Szoboszlai's 99th-minute penalty rescuing a point.
"Is my bank unlimited? If they have the funds, they have to do it," Pennant said. "If you've lost a player like Mohamed Salah, you have to replace him with a player of similar caliber.
"You need someone who can get past players quickly, assist, and attack. Barcola's pace goes a long way. Liverpool desperately needs a marquee winger. I think you have to pay.
"For Liverpool, it's tough because they need more than one player, but I'd go for Bradley Barcola. They desperately need that attacking threat."
Liverpool has also moved for Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh, with the Seagulls said to be demanding $95 million (£70 million) for the forward.
Bradley Barcola is understood to be interested in moving to Liverpool
Bradley Barcola is understood to be interested in moving to Liverpool(Image: LOU BENOIST, AFP via Getty Images)
So far, Andoni Iraola's side has only gone as high as $82 million (£60 million) for the 22-year-old Gambian. "£70 million nowadays is actually kind of cheap in the Premier League," Pennant, speaking to Oddschecker, continued.
"Minteh is Premier League proven at Brighton, so you know what you're going to get. He has great pace, which is incredibly important for a winger.
"I'd pay for Minteh. I'm not as sure about Endrick because he's more of a number nine. I'd definitely go with Minteh just for the Premier League experience."
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On Barcola, PSG sporting director Luis Campos admitted that the player could still leave before the summer window ends as he spoke ahead of the Ligue 1 champion tying 2-2 with Rennes.
"In terms of departures, we'll see what happens regarding Barcola and Mbaye," Campos is quoted as telling French television. "I understand your questions about them, but you also have to understand my position.
"We'll see what happens at the end of the window. Remember last year with Gigi Donnarumma, it was done at the end of the window. We'll see."
Liverpool.com says: Getting Barcola is simply a must, with the clock ticking. Without at least two additions in attack, Andoni Iraola's roster will look very light.