Liverpool’s £123m gamble on Barcola hinges on Gerrard’s verdict

Steven Gerrard has hailed Bradley Barcola as the player who can take Liverpool to the next level as the Reds move to finalise a £123 million transfer for the 23‑year‑old Paris Saint‑Germain winger. The deal, negotiated after months of pursuit, sees the club slash the original £145 million asking price to £106 million plus £17 million in add‑ons.

Liverpool’s summer pursuit

The Reds have chased the winger for the bulk of the summer window. Barcola, a 23‑year‑old from Paris Saint‑Germain, was initially behind Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue in the PSG hierarchy. The arrival of Maghnes Akliouche and Mika Godts in Paris further opened space for the French side to consider a sale.

PSG originally set a £145 million price tag on Barcola, reflecting his importance to Luis Enrique’s first‑team. Liverpool have negotiated the fee down to £106 million with an additional £17 million in add‑ons. The reduction came after the winger slipped down the pecking order at the French capital. Gerrard described Barcola as “incredible talent” ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Nottingham Forest. He noted the player has won two Champions Leagues in the last two years and “has not hit his ceiling yet”. Gerrard concluded that the signing is “a fantastic deal” that will help the club reach the next level.

Liverpool spend £106m on Barcola as deal finalised

For Liverpool, the addition of a proven Champions League winner bolsters a squad that already boasts four wingers. The £123 million outlay, now softened by add‑ons, signals the Reds’ intent to compete on multiple fronts. PSG, meanwhile, can recoup a substantial portion of their original valuation while reshaping their attacking options. Both parties view the agreement as a win‑win for their strategic plans.

The article’s ImageSteven shows Barcola(Image captured by PA during his recent training session. The caption reads “Barcola (Image)”. The report, dated Aug 29 2026, underscores LIVERPOOL’s determination to finalise the deal. De and Saint references appear in the broader coverage of the transfer market.

Gerrard says Liverpool need a defensive midfielder before deadline