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 has largely remained a substitute for big matches in Paris and has rejected a contract extension offer. Consequently, a departure this summer is on the cards, with Liverpool notably showing interest. L’Équipe provided an update this Tuesday, including details on the desired signing to replace him. Ibrahim Mbaye (an 18-year-old forward) has also been mentioned, though his future remains somewhat uncertain.
Two French talents in their sights.
The desire to recruit a new attacking player aligns perfectly with the void Barcola’s departure might leave. The target profile is a young player with high potential. Laciné Megnan (16), Montpellier’s versatile forward, fit the bill, but MHSC is unwilling to let him go this season; they hope to boost his market value throughout the year to achieve a record fee next summer.
Adil Hamdani (17), a Paris-born talent from the Lyon academy, is being closely monitored by PSG, as there has been no movement regarding his contract situation.
“In recent hours, Paris has stood firm on its latest demands.”
Regarding the Barcola situation, talks between the two clubs have resumed with some minor progress. In recent hours, Paris has stood firm on its latest demands: €140 million. One week to go (text added by Loïc Tanzi on X, Ed.).
“The Senegalese international has turned his attention to other clubs.”
The situation is slightly different for Ibrahim Mbaye (18, under contract until 2028). Liverpool wanted to negotiate a package deal with Paris involving both Barcola and the Senegalese international. Paris refused this approach, insisting on two separate negotiations. With the English side prioritizing the signing of the Frenchman, the Senegalese international has turned his attention to other clubs.
As always with the transfer market, we remain cautious due to a lack of concrete developments. While it all makes sense, nothing is guaranteed—except for the interest from Megnan-Pavé, though Montpellier has been very clear about their stance for this season. The idea of a transfer followed immediately by a loan move has been floated, though without any confirmation. As for Hamdani, the rumor surfaced yesterday via a sports newspaper, so nothing is certain there either.
Regarding Barcola and Mbaye, there have been numerous reports in recent weeks, and coach Luis Enrique’s selection choices confirm they are not currently in his plans. However, that alone isn’t enough to guarantee a transfer will be finalized, even if it is likely.
An offer attractive enough for PSG is still required—something that has yet to materialize, even though the asking price has dropped from the €170 million figure initially mentioned for Barcola. This isn’t surprising; starting high is simply part of the negotiation game. Now, we wait to see if Liverpool and Paris can reach an agreement.
Alternatively, another club might capitalize on the situation. Arsenal, for instance, has been linked to the player several times this summer. As for Mbaye, the situation remains somewhat unclear, despite mentions of interest from a few Premier League and Bundesliga clubs.
