Barcola’s Super Cup appearance could tip Liverpool’s £145m chase

Liverpool are set to learn the fate of their pursuit of PSG winger Bradley Barcola on Wednesday night, as the 23‑year‑old carries a reported £145 million price tag and could feature for the Parisians in the UEFA Super Cup final this evening.

Why Liverpool target Barcola

The Reds’ summer‑long chase for PSG winger Bradley Barcola has somewhat overshadowed the Anfield club’s business this summer. Barcola is keen on a move to Merseyside, and Liverpool see his pace and creativity as a boost for their attacking options. The £145 million price tag, with reports ranging from £128m to £145m, underscores the financial commitment the club would need to make.

What the Super Cup decision could mean

ImagesBradley Barcola could give a big hint over his future on Wednesday(Image: Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images). Chris Burns Senior Sports Writer05:00, 12 Aug 2026, notes that Barcola’s inclusion in the squad for the Paris side’s UEFA Super Cup tie against Europa League winners Villa could send a telling signal. If he starts, it may indicate PSG intend to keep the 23‑year‑old, while a bench role could open the door for Liverpool.

PSG are also pursuing Barcelona’s Ferran Torres and have shown interest in Ajax forward Mika Godts, while already signing Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche. Luis Enrique, PSG boss, said: “I don’t know and I don’t want to speak about any player individually, because it’s always dangerous when you are asking something positive or negative about a player. I stay focused on my team.” These parallel targets suggest the club could use Barcola’s Super Cup involvement as leverage to secure a higher fee.

The implication for Liverpool is clear: a starting appearance for Barcola would likely force the Reds to increase their offer, whereas a bench role could give them a stronger negotiating position. Andoni Iraola will know where he stands once the team sheets are published, allowing Liverpool to decide whether to push forward with a £145 million bid.

For PSG, fielding Barcola in the Super Cup could either showcase him as a key asset or demonstrate that he remains on the market, influencing the timing of any transfer. The outcome will shape both clubs’ strategies in the coming weeks.

We will be watching the match‑day announcements closely, as the decision will provide a concrete signal to both parties about the future of this high‑profile deal.