Bradley Barcola is preparing to leave PSG this summer, with Liverpool as his top destination. The 23-year-old France star has become increasingly frustrated with his role under Luis Enrique.
What happened?
On Tuesday, Barcola scored his second goal of the World Cup finals, as France stormed into the last 16 with a crushing 3-0 win over Sweden.
Why it matters for Bradley Barcola
Barcola's strike will have caught the attention of Liverpool, who are keen on the winger as they look to replace the iconic Mohamed Salah. The Reds have already made fresh contact with Barcola's camp this week.
What comes next?
PSG are expected to reluctantly sanction Barcola's sale, despite David Ornstein suggesting otherwise, with the Ligue 1 giants already agreeing deals to move on Goncalo Ramos to AC Milan and putting Lee Kang-in and Randal Kolo Muani up for sale.
Barcola fears he has slipped behind Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Desire Doué, and Ousmane Dembele in the pecking order, a feeling reinforced during PSG's Champions League run. He was restricted to a bit-part role in the semi-finals against Bayern Munich before playing just seven minutes in the final against Arsenal.
The winger's representatives have spoken with Liverpool officials, who have received further encouragement that Barcola is preparing to leave the Parc des Princes before the transfer window closes. Barcola had informed PSG he would seek a move after becoming increasingly frustrated with his role under Enrique.
Liverpool's interest in Barcola is genuine, with the Reds making him their top target in a new six-man winger wishlist. The potential transfer fee is expected to exceed £116 million, with Ornstein maintaining that PSG "do not need to sell".
The situation is reminiscent of Yan Diomande, who ignored Liverpool's overtures and made clear his preference to join PSG. However, with Paris Saint-Germain now locked in talks over a deal with RB Leipzig for Diomande, the expectation is that Barcola will be the one forced out.
Barcola's future at PSG looks increasingly uncertain, with the France star set to make a decision on his next move in the coming weeks. Liverpool will be hoping to persuade him to join the Reds, but they will face stiff competition from other top clubs.
The World Cup finals have provided a platform for Barcola to showcase his skills, and he has taken full advantage, scoring two goals and providing one assist. His performances have caught the attention of Liverpool, who believe he has the potential to be a key player for the Reds.
The transfer window is set to be a busy one, with several top clubs looking to strengthen their squads. Barcola's future will be one of the most closely watched stories, as he prepares to make a decision on his next move.