Liverpool intensify Bradley Barcola pursuit as Iraola uses Leeds defeat to expose squad gaps

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola says his side’s 4-2 friendly defeat by Leeds United has highlighted problems that must be addressed before the new season, as the club races to reach an agreement for Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola.

The Spanish coach described Sunday’s loss as a valuable test for his team, while reports from The Telegraph, Sky Sports and Liverpool Echo say Liverpool are working hard to sign the former Lyon player.

Barcola has become the club’s leading attacking target, although negotiations over the transfer fee remain complicated.

“I think we learned a lot from this game. Obviously, it is not the result we wanted, but I think it was probably the most useful friendly we have played so far,” Iraola said after the match.

“We played with obvious positivity in the first half, but we were completely passive in the second half. We learned a lot today (yesterday), and I think we can take some good lessons and solve some of the problems that appeared.”

Iraola was particularly concerned by defensive weaknesses, with Liverpool dealing with several significant injuries in that area of the squad.

Liverpool’s summer activity

Liverpool have so far had a relatively quiet transfer window compared with last year, with Victor Munoz their only arrival to date at a reported cost of 40m euros.

That cautious approach follows a record-breaking summer in 2025, when the club spent about 500m euros. The contrast has surprised and worried supporters who had expected another major recruitment campaign.

However, the situation could change significantly in the coming days as Liverpool pursue an influential attacking signing.

Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig, the Ivory Coast international, had previously been regarded as a top priority. But with his expected move to Real Madrid, Liverpool have switched their full attention to Barcola.

The France forward is reportedly keen on a move to Anfield after declining to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain. That has made the French club open to a sale, although it will not allow him to leave for any price.

Some reports have put Paris Saint-Germain’s asking price at 170m euros, while others have suggested 150m euros. Whatever the final figure, Liverpool are not currently prepared to meet such a sizeable demand.

The Telegraph says Liverpool will make an offer worth 130m euros, while Sky Sports claims the club will not bid more than 115m euros.

Liverpool Echo reports that the Merseyside club wants to negotiate a lower fee and has made Barcola its main attacking priority, particularly because the player himself wants to join Liverpool.

Paris Saint-Germain want a replacement

Liverpool Echo also says Paris Saint-Germain and manager Luis Enrique want to sign a replacement for Barcola before approving his departure, provided all financial and sporting conditions are satisfied.

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano says talks will continue over the coming days. Liverpool hope to complete the deal quickly, but Paris Saint-Germain is controlling the pace and direction of the negotiations.

At the same time, Liverpool are making tangible progress towards signing AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori. The English centre-back, whose contract with Milan runs until 2027, is highly regarded by Liverpool and is being considered to strengthen a defence affected by injuries.

The club are also working on two potential departures to raise funds for further recruitment.

Curtis Jones is under increasing pressure to leave with one year remaining on his contract. Inter Milan have renewed their interest in the midfielder with a proposed fee of about 35m euros, while Liverpool want 40m euros. His departure is hoped to be completed this week.

Liverpool Echo says the club would also strongly welcome Harvey Elliott’s exit, with the midfielder reportedly attracting interest from Leeds United and RB Leipzig.

Federico Chiesa, meanwhile, is wanted by Atletico de Madrid. The Italy international is determined to prove himself under Iraola and does not want to leave.