Liverpool can step up pursuit of top transfer target after World Cup heartbreak

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Liverpool is still looking for a replacement for Mohamed Salah this summer, but with France's World Cup hopes now over, the Reds could have the chance to step things up for Bradley BarcolaBradley Barcola could be set to decide on his future after France's World Cup exit(Image: Getty Images)With France’s World Cup dream now over, Liverpool might finally be about to get some clarity on Bradley Barcola’s future.Speculation has surrounded the winger for some time now, and with Yan Diomande having decided on a move to Paris Saint-Germain, Barcola has become the most prominent name linked with replacing Mohamed Salah at Anfield.He has done his reputation no harm at the World Cup, even if the semifinal against Spain didn’t go as he or anyone from Didier Deschamps’ side would have hoped, and with his position in the French capital coming under further doubt, the time is right for Liverpool to step things up.Of course, PSG signing Diomande would have the potential to drop Barcola further down the pecking order under Luis Enrique, with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue already favored ahead of him.And the RB Leipzig teenager is not the only threat, with the European champions also said to be leading the race for Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, who could provide another option on the wing.Barcola has already hinted that he faces a big decision this summer, having admitted earlier this month that he’s unsure about his future.Bradley Barcola has been linked with a transfer to Liverpool and Arsenal this summer(Image: (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images))"Right now, I'm really focused on the World Cup, as you said," Barcola told reporters during a press conference. "But regarding what happens afterward, honestly, I don't know at the moment."That decision won’t come immediately, with France still having to go through an unnecessary third-place play-off before it can return from the U.S., but after that, it could be time for Barcola to move on.There have been doubts over whether the 23-year-old will even be made available this summer, with previous reports indicating that PSG is not putting him up for sale.

There does seem to be a shift in the French club’s stance emerging though.Get Liverpool's new 2026/27 home kitThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreLiverpool FC have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27, inspired by iconic adidas strip worn during the club's 1989/90 title-winning campaign.David Ornstein has told The Atheltic FC podcast that PSG is “realistic” about Barcola’s situation, and although it would like to keep him, recognizes that he has two years remaining on his contract and is not a regular starter, suggesting that the player would be open to a move.Barcola is said to be high in Liverpool’s thinking, having been identified as one of four alternative options to Diomande.

Arsenal has also been linked, although the Gunners are also thought to be looking at Morgan Rogers, with the Aston Villa star reported to be their priority.Liverpool.com says: Liverpool needs to get an answer quickly from Barcola and PSG. The club can’t let this search for a new winger drag on, with the new season now just over a month away.Barcola would clearly be the most attractive prospect if he becomes available, but even if he does, you can expect PSG to demand big money - potentially even more than the Reds might have paid for Diomande.