Liverpool face major Bradley Barcola transfer hurdle as PSG demand huge fee

Liverpool's pursuit of Bradley Barcola is proving increasingly complicated, with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly refusing to lower their valuation of the French winger despite ongoing negotiations between the two clubs.

Barcola has emerged as one of Liverpool's priority attacking targets this summer, but the Premier League champions remain some distance away from reaching an agreement with PSG, who are demanding a substantial transfer fee for the 22-year-old.

According to Sky Sports, discussions between Liverpool and PSG are continuing but remain "difficult", with the two clubs yet to find common ground over a transfer fee.

Reports claiming an agreement had already been reached were dismissed, with negotiations instead described as being a significant distance from completion.

PSG are believed to value Barcola at around £145 million, a figure that would exceed the British-record fee Liverpool paid to sign Alexander Isak last summer by approximately £20 million.

Liverpool's task could become even more complicated if Arsenal decide to revive their interest in Barcola.

The Gunners are also monitoring the France international after missing out on Vinicius Junior, who has committed his future to Real Madrid. Mikel Arteta has already strengthened his squad with the signing of Bruno Guimaraes but is still looking to add another attacking option before the transfer window closes.

Whether Arsenal are prepared to match PSG's valuation remains unclear, with the asking price viewed as a significant obstacle for any interested club.

Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen believes Barcola possesses the quality to improve Arne Slot's attack but warned the club against paying an inflated fee.

"Barcola, he's obviously the big name on everybody's lips, and it sounds like he might be available," Owen told the Liverpool Echo.

"He seems to be one that's available, that's got the quality. And it sounds like there's no smoke without fire. It sounds like they'd be interested, but a lot will depend on the price, I guess."

Owen also suggested Liverpool should have considered a move for West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen if Barcola ultimately proves too expensive.

Liverpool are expected to continue negotiations with PSG in an attempt to reduce Barcola's asking price, although the French champions currently appear unwilling to compromise. With Arsenal also monitoring the situation, the coming weeks could determine whether Liverpool press ahead with a club-record bid or turn their attention to alternative attacking targets before the transfer window closes.