Liverpool cool Ibrahim Mbaye interest as Barcola talks continue

Liverpool are unlikely to take their interest in Paris Saint-Germain youngster Ibrahim Mbaye any further, with the Reds instead continuing discussions over teammate Bradley Barcola.

Andoni Iraola's side are looking to strengthen their options out wide before the transfer window closes as they plan for the long-term future of their attack.

Liverpool explored the possibility of signing Mbaye, but journalist Simon Jones reports that their interest has not developed beyond that initial stage.

Liverpool's contact over Mbaye is described as exploratory, with the club now unlikely to progress towards a formal move for the PSG youngster.

“As it stands Liverpool are unlikely to pursue their interest in Ibrahim Mbaye at Paris Saint-Germain, which has not been anything more than exploratory to date,” Jones reported.

Instead, another PSG winger remains firmly on Liverpool's radar.

“They are continuing to discuss a move for his team-mate Bradley Barcola.”

Barcola is further into his development than Mbaye and would provide Liverpool with a more established attacking option if an agreement can be reached.

The Reds have already signed Victor Munoz this summer but remain interested in adding another winger as they consider their longer-term succession plan for Mohamed Salah.

Liverpool have been relatively quiet compared with several Premier League rivals during the window, but their continued discussions over Barcola indicate further business remains possible.

There is no indication from the supplied reporting that Liverpool have reached an agreement with PSG or submitted a formal offer for the France international.

Their decision not to push ahead with Mbaye, however, could allow greater focus to be placed on Barcola during the remaining weeks of the window.

After a disappointing 2025/26 campaign, strengthening Iraola's attacking options remains an important part of Liverpool's plans.

Transfer work continues as Liverpool prepare to begin their Premier League campaign against Newcastle United this weekend.

Hugo Ekitike is currently unavailable through injury, leaving Iraola with decisions to make across his forward line.

Alexander Isak is likely to lead the attack, while Munoz and Cody Gakpo are options in the wide positions. Youngster Rio Ngumoha could also push for an opportunity after working his way into first-team contention.

That lack of attacking depth helps explain why Liverpool remain active in the winger market despite already adding Munoz.

Liverpool's attention now appears to be focused more heavily on Barcola, although negotiations remain at the discussion stage. Any progress will depend on PSG's position and the terms required to take the France international to Anfield.

Should Liverpool prioritise Bradley Barcola before the transfer window closes?