GistReel
Liverpool have officially completed the signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal that could rise to £123m.
The France international has signed a long-term contract with the Premier League champions and will wear the No.29 shirt after completing his move to Anfield.
The transfer makes Barcola the second-most expensive player in Premier League history, behind Liverpool team-mate Alexander Isak, who joined the club for £125m last summer.
Barcola targets Premier League success
Liverpool will pay an initial £106m for the 23-year-old, with a further £17m available in performance-related add-ons.
The final fee is significantly below PSG’s initial valuation of around £145m, allowing Liverpool to secure one of Europe’s most sought-after young attackers without matching the French club’s original demands.
Barcola said winning the Premier League is one of his immediate ambitions after completing the move.
“It’s a great pride to be able to play for Liverpool. I’m very happy,” he said.
“I hope to achieve very big things. First of all, winning the Premier League – it’s one of my biggest dreams in my life.”
The winger also revealed that Liverpool’s reputation and atmosphere played a major role in his decision.
“When I knew about Liverpool’s interest in me, I didn’t ask questions and I knew it was a very big club for me,” he added.
Liverpool strengthen attacking options
Barcola arrives after three seasons with PSG, where he made 153 appearances, scoring 39 goals and providing 37 assists.
He was also part of the French side that won consecutive Champions League titles and three Ligue 1 championships.
Liverpool have relied on Cody Gakpo, Victor Munoz and Rio Ngumoha in the wide positions during their opening league fixtures, but Barcola now gives manager Andoni Iraola another proven attacking option.
His arrival could also influence Gakpo’s future, with Manchester City and Tottenham interested in the Netherlands international.
Liverpool are reportedly considering another addition on the wing before allowing Gakpo to depart, with Crystal Palace forward Ismaila Sarr among the players linked with a move to Anfield.
The Reds have made an unbeaten start to the Premier League season, drawing against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
Barcola will now hope to make his Liverpool debut when Iraola’s side travel to Ipswich on Friday.