Liverpool’s pursuit of Bradley Barcola may have just received its biggest boost yet, as Paris Saint-Germain close in on Maghnes Akliouche deal.
Will Bradley Barcola be a Liverpool player before the new season starts?
Paris Saint-Germain look set to land one of France’s brightest young talents after Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Maghnes Akliouche is on the verge of completing a €50 million switch from AS Monaco.
Akliouche to PSG, Barcola to Liverpool?
With the 23-year-old expected to sign a contract until 2031 following a medical next week, the move could have significant consequences far beyond the French capital.
For Liverpool, it may be the clearest indication yet that Bradley Barcola’s future could become one of the biggest stories of the remaining transfer window.
PSG have already assembled one of the deepest attacking squads in Europe, and adding another versatile winger in Akliouche only increases competition for places.
France v Morocco - Boston Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts, U.S. - July 9, 2026 France's Maghnes Akliouche walks out onto the pitch before the match IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/David Butler Comfortable on either side, but particularly dangerous cutting inside from the right, Akliouche offers Luis Enrique another technically gifted option.
That inevitably raises questions about Barcola. The French international has been heavily linked with Liverpool in recent weeks, and while PSG have publicly shown little interest in selling one of their standout attackers, Akliouche’s arrival could be exactly the domino that alters PSG’s stance.
Barcola Stats
Under Andoni Iraola, the Reds are expected to play with relentless intensity, direct attacking football and aggressive pressing. Barcola possesses all the qualities needed to thrive in that system. His explosive acceleration, ability to beat defenders one-on-one, would add another dimension to Liverpool’s frontline.
Last season, Barcola continued to establish himself as one of Europe’s elite young wingers, contributing goals and assists. He scored 16 total goals during the recently concluded 2025–2026 club and international season, featuring 11 goals in Ligue 1, two in the Champions League, and three for France.
Still only 23, it makes him an ideal long-term investment for a Liverpool side looking to build another title-winning team.
July 18, 2026 France's Bradley Barcola celebrates scoring their second goal IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Sam NavarroPerfect Timing for Liverpool?
The timing also feels significant. Liverpool have remained patient throughout the summer, waiting for opportunities rather than forcing expensive deals.
Should PSG feel their attacking department is becoming overcrowded following Akliouche’s arrival, sporting director Richard Hughes could be ready to move quickly.
PSG remain in a strong negotiating position, and Barcola would command a substantial fee if they decided to listen to offers. However, Akliouche’s impending arrival changes the landscape. What once appeared an impossible transfer suddenly looks more realistic.
Liverpool fans will now be watching events in Paris with renewed optimism.
