IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Vincent Carchietta
Bradley Barcola has completed his transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to Liverpool after weeks of speculation, and the Frenchman has revealed exactly why he chose the Reds.
The back-to-back Champions League winner could become the second most expensive player in Premier League history (£123m) if all add-on requirements are met. Only Alexander Isak, his new teammate, cost more (£125m).
Andoni Iraola's men have prioritised strengthening in wide areas, with Barcola joining Victor Munoz as a new arrival on the flanks. But the Merseysiders aren't the only ones who have been looking to add wingers to their ranks this summer.
Why Bradley Barcola Always Wanted to Join Liverpool
REUTERS/Stephanie Lecocq
Arsenal, the reigning Premier League champions, were also linked with a potential move for the 23-year-old after missing out on Real Madrid and Brazil superstar Vinicius Junior in June. However, the Gunners opted not to get involved.
According to journalist David Lynch, Mikel Arteta's side and any other suitors were informed earlier in the summer that Barcola had his heart set on a switch to Anfield.
Bradley Barcola Liverpool
Bradley Barcola Liverpool
The loyalty to the Reds is reportedly down to the club's initial attempts to sign him when he broke onto the scene as a youngster at Lyon in 2021. Ultimately, Barcola joined PSG two years later, but Liverpool have finally got their man. They never broke off contact with the wide player despite initially missing out on him to the French giants.
After his transfer was announced, Barcola explained why he was determined to join the 20-time English champions. He told the club website (per the Express):
Barcola was part of the PSG team that knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League in two successive seasons. He even showed his quality by assisting Ousmane Dembele in both legs at Anfield, his new home.
Bradley Barcola's Liverpool Shirt Number and Salary
Many thought Barcola might take the famous number 11 at Liverpool, which was vacated when Mohamed Salah departed the club in June. However, the France international decided to take a number that's only been worn by nine players at Anfield.
The highest-paid players in the Premier League in the 2024-2025 season
The highest-paid players in the Premier League in the 2024-2025 season
He'll be donning the No.29 for his new club, just as he did at PSG. He has explained the reasoning, citing the FIFA video game as the reason behind his affinity for the digits.
He's also set to be one of the highest-earners at the club. It's hardly a surprise given the huge transfer fee, but Barcola reportedly put pen to paper on a £250,000-per-week deal.