Not just Barcola: Liverpool open talks for £43m explosive forward

It looks like Liverpool are moving closer to a deal for Bradley Barcola.

The 23-year-old Frenchman won’t renew his contract at Paris Saint-Germain - paving the way for a blockbuster transfer to Anfield.

The France international is expected to cost between £100m and £130m and will ink a six-year deal on Merseyside. Finally Liverpool will get their ideal marquee winger to replace Mohamed Salah in the squad.

However Barcola is not an exact stylistic match for the Egyptian King.

Liverpool open Francisco Conceicao talks

He is less of a playmaker than Salah and excels on the transition with the ball at his feet.

Besides Barcola is right-footed - meaning Richard Hughes and Andoni Iraola will lose that cutting inside threat that the 34-year-old provided so capably throughout his time at Anfield.

Liverpool still have space in the squad to accommodate another wide forward - particularly if Cody Gakpo or Federico Chiesa leave.

And it’s been reported in Fussball Daten that decision-makers inside Anfield have made enquiries to sign Francisco Conceicao from Juventus.

The Portugal international is also wanted by RB Leipzig as a potential replacement for Yan Diomande - who is headed for Real Madrid.

Unlike Barcola - who will go for around nine figures it looks like Conceicao will be available for just €50m (£43m).

Conceicao: Yours for £43m

That is an attractive price for a player of Conceicao’s ability and potential. He is a left-footed, right-sided attacker with explosive pace and unmatched dribbling ability.

“Exceptionally high and difficult-to-reject offers could be considered,” the report reads.

“Juventus has set a threshold of €50 million for initiating negotiations and is demanding a transfer fee.

“Compared to similar winger profiles on the market, such as the valuations of players like Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola, this sum appears to be a relatively attractive and achievable option for interested clubs.

“Liverpool are looking to bolster their attack in the English Premier League and have officially inquired about the terms of a potential transfer for Francisco Conceição this summer.

“The Anfield club made initial contact, asking about the asking price and the player's contract details.

“Liverpool's scouts consider a possible Conceição transfer for around €50 million a financially sound solution compared to more expensive alternatives like Barcola.”

Liverpool's two-pronged approach to replace Salah

Earlier this year it was reported in Gazzetta dello Sport that Liverpool were considering a two-pronged approach for replacing Salah.

“Finding a direct replacement is unrealistic, so the club are expected to split their focus between marquee signings and players who can grow into the role,” the report reads.

“Francisco Conceição is starting to emerge in that second category.”

Francisco Conceição: Situation summary

Francisco Conceicao is a lively, left-footed winger who does his best work from the right, using acceleration, close control and quick dribbling to unsettle defenders.

He is the sort of player who can change the rhythm of a match in a few touches rather than by constant possession. Juventus made his move permanent in 2025 and signed him to 2030, but that does not make him untouchable.

Recent reporting suggests the club would consider a sale if an offer reaches roughly €50m, which puts him in the high-value, but not closed, category.

Liverpool have been linked, so the most realistic outcome is that Juventus keep him unless a serious Premier League bid arrives.