Bradley Barcola, a 23-year-old forward signed by Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023 on a contract running until June 2028, has established himself at both PSG and the French national team. However, he remains something of a substitute for big matches, a situation that—according to numerous media outlets—has led him to refuse a contract extension. A departure during this transfer window is therefore being considered, with Liverpool notably linked to the player. According to Sky Sports, however, PSG has not made moves for Mika Godts or Maghnes Akliouche as potential replacements for him.
“PSG does not view Godts or Akliouche as replacements for Barcola”
Paris Saint-Germain’s pursuit of wingers Mika Godts and Maghnes Akliouche does not increase the likelihood of a departure for Bradley Barcola, a player also targeted by Liverpool.
The French and European champions are in advanced negotiations to sign Ajax winger Mika Godts and have reached an agreement with Monaco regarding Maghnes Akliouche.
However, PSG does not consider either Godts or Akliouche to be replacements for Barcola, whose value is estimated at £145 million.
“PSG wants to keep the French international”
As things stand, PSG has not received any offer for Barcola that it deems satisfactory.
Ideally, PSG wishes to retain the French international, who still has two years remaining on his contract. PSG has already signed three forwards this summer: Gonçalo Ramos, Randal Kolo Muani, and Kang-in Lee.
Naturally, we remain cautious; nothing is certain regarding this matter yet. Barcola is widely tipped to leave—which makes sense, given his refusal to extend his contract and his openness to a move—particularly with Liverpool in the picture; it is an excellent club where a starting spot could be up for grabs.
However, a transfer is far from a done deal. He could still have a role to play at PSG, and the club won’t let him go easily. The Reds would also need to be willing to pay a substantial fee. PSG has, understandably, already made progress on its attacking recruitment, making it hard to say whether Barcola would even need replacing. That said, Paris cannot simply stockpile players. We cannot rule out the possibility that this rumor originated in Paris to put a bit of pressure on Liverpool. Above all, we will have to wait for concrete developments.
