Liverpool would be keen on recruiting Paris-Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as Luis Diaz’s replacement, according to ESPN reporter Julen Laurens.
The journalist claims that sporting director Richard Hughes is a “big fan” of the France international.
However, Barcola’s club PSG would be reluctant to let him leave the Parc des Princes and it remains to be seen if the Reds will push to secure his signature over the coming weeks.
When the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham were linked with the 22-year-old last month, it was suggested that he could be let go for around €100m (£87m), but it would be difficult for Arne Slot’s side to match that price, especially if they are going to pay between £130m and £150m for Alexander Isak as well.
What is the latest on Diaz’s Liverpool exit?
The Reds have reportedly agreed a fee with Bayern Munich for the Colombian international. The Bundesliga champions are expected to pay €70m (£60.7m) up front with another €5m (£4.3m) in performance-related add-ons.
Diaz is expected to travel to Germany for a medical tomorrow (Tuesday 29th July) ahead of completing his move.
Nunez and Chiesa departures may determine winger approach
Most reports have suggested that the Diaz money will be used to partly fund the club’s first offer for Isak, so bringing in another winger this summer is unlikely unless further sales are made.
Darwin Nunez’s transfer to Napoli may have collapsed but there is still interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia. If the Uruguayan international does leave for £60m or £70m, it would give the club more room for manoeuvre.
The case is slightly different with Federico Chiesa. His exit won’t bring in much in the way of funds, but it would free up more space on the left hand side as well as reduce the wage bill.
In other news, we list the 5 favourites to sign Alexander Isak if he leaves Newcastle