There could be another interesting development in Liverpool’s pursuit of PSG’s attacking duo.
Reports from France suggest Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye will once again be left out of the PSG squad, as both players continue to see their futures surrounded by uncertainty.
For Liverpool supporters, that is certainly something worth keeping an eye on.
Both Barcola and Mbaye have been strongly linked with moves to Anfield, with Liverpool reportedly interested in signing the pair.
Another weekend on the sidelines
The fact that Barcola and Mbaye could once again be omitted from the squad is significant.
These are two highly-rated attacking players who would normally be expected to be competing for places in PSG’s team.
Instead, their futures appear to be taking centre stage.
If PSG continue to leave them out while negotiations take place, it suggests the club may not want either player involved while there is uncertainty over potential transfers.
And Liverpool will undoubtedly be watching the situation closely.
Barcola remains the big target
Liverpool’s interest in Barcola has been one of the major stories of the transfer window.
The French winger has been viewed as one of the club’s preferred attacking targets, with his pace, directness and ability to beat defenders making him an obvious fit for what Liverpool need.
Most importantly, reports have indicated that Barcola’s priority is Liverpool.
That could become increasingly important if PSG eventually decide they are willing to negotiate.
Mbaye is a different situation
Liverpool are also interested in Ibrahim Mbaye, but the financial side of that deal appears much more complicated.
PSG reportedly want around €70m-€80m for the 18-year-old, while Liverpool value him closer to €50m and aren’t currently prepared to go as high as €60m.
So there remains a significant difference in valuation.
Liverpool have already reportedly agreed personal terms with Mbaye, meaning the biggest obstacle is now the fee PSG are demanding.
Why leaving them out matters
If Barcola and Mbaye are both left out again, it raises an obvious question:
How long can PSG continue this situation?
The longer they remain unavailable, the more pressure there could be on PSG to resolve their futures.
Liverpool don’t need to panic.
In fact, they should continue doing exactly what they appear to be doing — waiting for PSG to become more realistic with their demands.
Liverpool need attacking reinforcements
From Liverpool’s perspective, this situation is particularly interesting because Andoni Iraola needs more attacking options.
Alexander Isak needs service.
Florian Wirtz needs runners around him.
Liverpool need pace and directness from the wide areas.
Barcola would certainly provide that.
And Mbaye represents another hugely exciting long-term option.
But Liverpool have to make sure they don’t overpay.
Another weekend, another reminder
Barcola and Mbaye being left out again doesn’t necessarily mean either player is about to join Liverpool.
But it certainly keeps the situation alive.
Both players remain on the sidelines.
Liverpool remain interested.
And PSG still have decisions to make.
Could another weekend without Barcola and Mbaye finally push PSG towards a compromise?
Liverpool supporters will certainly be hoping so.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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