Liverpool handed major Barcola and Mbaye boost as PSG leave duo out of squad

Liverpool have received another encouraging sign in their pursuit of Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye, with Paris Saint-Germain leaving both attackers out of their squad for the Ligue 1 opener against Rennes.

The Reds have been working on deals for both players, and PSG's latest squad decision comes while discussions over their futures continue.

According to Onze Mondial, neither Barcola nor Mbaye will travel to Brittany this weekend.

Barcola and Mbaye were also absent against Lens in the Trophée des Champions, but their continued omission is particularly interesting given Liverpool's ongoing transfer efforts.

PSG are reportedly taking a cautious approach with players whose futures remain unresolved.

The French champions recently explained their position regarding Barcola, insisting they want to “protect” the winger while he is not fully focused because of the uncertainty surrounding his future.

The same approach is now being taken with Mbaye.

Rather than involving either forward while transfer discussions continue, PSG have decided to leave both out.

Liverpool's pursuit of the PSG pair has developed significantly during the past week.

The French club were previously reluctant to entertain the possibility of losing Barcola, but their stance has reportedly changed.

PSG are now more prepared to move on players who have indicated they want to leave, providing Liverpool with an opportunity to negotiate.

Barcola has been the more prominent target, with Liverpool holding active discussions over his potential move to Anfield.

Mbaye's situation is also developing. The youngster has reportedly already reached a contract agreement with Liverpool, although the clubs still need to settle the transfer.

Signing Barcola could have consequences elsewhere in Liverpool's squad.

Tottenham remain interested in Cody Gakpo, who has already reached an agreement in principle with Roberto De Zerbi's side.

Liverpool have so far been reluctant to sanction Gakpo's departure, but Barcola arriving at Anfield could potentially change that position.

That makes Liverpool's negotiations with PSG particularly important during the final days of the window.

For now, the clearest indication is coming from Paris: neither Barcola nor Mbaye will be involved against Rennes while their futures remain unresolved.

Liverpool must now turn their interest into agreements with PSG. With both players being kept away from competitive action while negotiations continue, the coming days could prove decisive for a potential Anfield double deal.

Would signing both Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye give Liverpool the attacking rebuild they need?