Romano drops Barcola bombshell and issues update on what Liverpool need to do next

Liverpool have taken a major step forward in their pursuit of Bradley Barcola, with the Paris Saint-Germain winger now giving the Reds the green light over personal terms.

That removes one of the biggest potential obstacles in what could become one of the most expensive transfers of the summer.

The challenge now is convincing PSG to lower their enormous valuation of the 23-year-old, with negotiations between the clubs continuing.

Barcola has emerged as Liverpool’s leading target as they reshape their wide options following Mohamed Salah’s departure.

His pace, direct running and ability to operate across the frontline also look particularly suited to  Andoni Iraola’s high-energy approach.

Romano confirms Barcola agreement with Liverpool

According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcola has now given Liverpool the final approval on personal terms.

Liverpool and PSG are in direct, official negotiations, meaning the player’s side of the deal is no longer expected to cause any problems. The issue remains the transfer fee.

Sky Sports reports that PSG value Barcola at around £145 million, with a significant gap still existing between the clubs.

Liverpool have held preliminary discussions but have yet to satisfy the French champions financially.

PSG are also under little pressure to sell. Barcola has two years remaining on his contract, while the club would ideally prefer to keep him despite recently adding Maghnes Akliouche to their attacking options.

Reds may have to take the big financial gamble

Getting Barcola’s approval is significant because Liverpool can now concentrate entirely on finding a financial compromise with PSG.

From a football perspective, the attraction is obvious. Barcola is young, experienced at the highest level and already a multiple Champions League winner.

He also appears interested in becoming a central figure at Anfield rather than remaining part of PSG’s heavily stocked attack.

But £145m would be an extraordinary commitment.

Liverpool should push towards a deal, particularly because Arsenal continue to admire the Frenchman, but they should resist simply matching PSG’s asking price.

A lower guaranteed fee supplemented by achievable bonuses would make considerably more sense.

The player has effectively done his part. Now the transfer depends on whether Liverpool believe Barcola is special enough to justify breaking financial boundaries and whether PSG are finally prepared to compromise.