Bradley Barcola is known to be a Liverpool transfer target, and current coach Luis Enrique offered a cryptic response after he substituted the attacker at halftime.
PSG were crowned Ligue 1 champions for a fifth successive season on Wednesday, with a 2-0 win at Lens securing the title ahead of the defence of their Champions League crown.
Barcola, who has confirmed interest from Liverpool, started on the right wing for the Parisians but played only the first half before he was withdrawn.
He had 24 touches, created one big chance and made one defensive contribution, according to FotMob, with Foot Mercato describing him as “invisible,” having “almost never made a significant impact in behind the defense.”
They also described Barcola as “lacking inspiration in his movement,” with his “few bursts of speed lacking sharpness.”
The Frenchman was replaced by Vitinha, and Enrique offered a cryptic response to his decision when he spoke to reporters after his 16th title as a manager.
“I can’t say anything. No important information for you, think what you want,” Enrique said when asked about his halftime change. “I’m not explaining anything, but it’s very clear.”
Le 10 Sport felt it was a “telling response” from Enrique, who displayed “a certain degree of disappointment” for a player that is attracting transfer interest.
It is no secret that Enrique demands full effort and application from his players, otherwise they will not play, and it could hint the 23-year-old has already checked out.
A questionable workrate is not necessarily a trait any buying club would be eager to see, if that was, in fact, what occurred, but Enrique’s response suggests a starting role in the Champions League final could be in doubt.
Barcola is not short on competition at PSG, and Desire Doue’s recent form has given Enrique more options, but that is not an issue he would face at Liverpool.
Liverpool target Bradley Barcola “clearly interested” in Anfield move
PARIS, FRANCE - Wednesday, March 5, 2025: Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola (L) and Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson Becker during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 1st Leg game between Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool FC at the Parc des Princes. Liverpool won 1-0. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Reports earlier this week claimed Barcola was “clearly interested in the project proposed” by Liverpool, with “intense pressure” coming from the Merseysiders ahead of the summer window.
Arne Slot confirmed on Thursday that he and the club have been in talks with new players, and it stands to reason the 23-year-old could be among them.
Liverpool are in desperate need of an injection of pace on the wing, which Barcola could offer as a first-choice starter, something that is not currently forthcoming at PSG.
The club will have to wait to make progress on any potential deal as PSG focus on the Champions League final, but it would be no surprise to see the Reds make a move.