Liverpool backed to land Bradley Barcola before deadline despite PSG's €150m demand

Liverpool's pursuit of Bradley Barcola is gaining serious momentum, with a PSG insider expecting the winger to complete a move to Anfield before the September 1 deadline. The Reds have made the 23-year-old their priority attacking target after a busy spell in the market. They hijacked Newcastle's deal for Spain international Victor Munoz, were then turned down by Yan Diomande, and have now gone all-in on Barcola. The France winger is keen on Liverpool and has refused to sign a new contract as he looks for a way out. PSG would ideally keep him, but they accept he wants to be a regular starter - something they cannot currently guarantee. According to journalist Loic Tanzi, Barcola has already agreed personal terms with Liverpool. The two clubs, however, remain far apart on the fee. PSG have insisted on a valuation north of €150m, potentially as high as €170m, which would make the transfer a Premier League record. Liverpool, mindful of two record-breaking attacking signings last summer, do not want to go above €120m. The slow progress is also linked to PSG's need to sign replacements first. Maghnes Akliouche has completed his medical ahead of a €50m move from AS Monaco, while talks continue with Ajax over Mika Godts. Once those deals are done, PSG are expected to soften their stance. Asked in a Q&A whether Barcola would end up at Liverpool, Tanzi said: "It's a difficult question because the deal is far from being finalised. But I like to take chances and make predictions. This isn't information I've already shared, but I'm inclined to say yes, even though the two clubs' positions are still very far apart. Paris are hoping for €150m, excluding bonuses. Liverpool don't want to go above €120m. There's still time to reach an agreement, and if Paris manages to sign a winger and a striker, their positions will surely be able to move closer together more easily. Meanwhile, Barcola has already agreed contractually with Liverpool." Liverpool's plans could shift before the window closes. Tanzi says Cody Gakpo is the subject of negotiations with Tottenham, while Federico Chiesa could also depart. That would leave the Reds looking for two attacking players, with Barcola the top target for the left flank. PSG youngster Ibrahim Mbaye is another name on Liverpool's radar. He is viewed as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah on the right, though Liverpool's interest is at a very early stage. Mbaye wants to play in the Premier League next season, and Chelsea, Manchester City and Aston Villa have all shown interest. Bayer Leverkusen have made the most progress in talks with PSG, but the Germans do not have €50m to invest in the Senegal international. Not everyone at Liverpool is convinced by him. Barcola's move is not done yet, but the growing feeling is that it will get done before Deadline Day.