Andoni Iraola tells Richard Hughes: Bradley Barcola is not enough as deal revived for African forward

Liverpool have sealed a deal for Bradley Barcola.

The Paris Saint-Germain winger puts pen to paper on a contract at Anfield after the two clubs reached an agreement.

The 2024/25 Premier League champions are paying up to £120m for Barcola - who has emerged over the summer as Richard Hughes’ No1 attacking option.

But the Liverpool sporting director - and head coach Andoni Iraola - won’t stop there.

Liverpool still in the market for wingers

Barcola is a top-class performer but prefers to play on the left. His signing is likely to have a major bearing on the future of Cody Gakpo - but still no first-choice right winger has arrived.

Liverpool have been searching far and wide for a new performer in this position - a need made all the more profound by the departure of Mohamed Salah to Trabzonspor.

And now a report from Foday Manneh - a Gambian journalist close to the Yankuba Minteh deal - claims that a move for the 22-year-old Brighton attacker is set to be revived.

Liverpool revive deal for Minteh

The deal is being spearheaded by Basque tactico Iraola - who has informed his sporting director that signing Barcola alone won’t be sufficient.

Liverpool first tried for Minteh last week - with Brighton initially knocking back a bid worth £50m. A follow-up offer of £60m was sent but the costs have spiralled with the South Coast outfit’s valuation reportedly hitting £80m.

There are no indications Liverpool will do business at that price but there could well be a thaw in Brighton’s stance as the window draws to a close.

Andoni Iraola tells Richard Hughes: I want a player like Minteh

“Yankuba Minteh to Liverpool FC; the interest and pursuit is 𝐍𝐎𝐓 fully off,” he writes on X.

“LFC have discussed Minteh internally in the past 24 hours after finding it difficult to have other suitable options.

“The head coach, Andoni Iraola has also informed the recruitment team that he wants a Minteh-type player, with both defensive and attacking qualities. Other options are not enough.

“Brighton's price could also come down after rejecting £50M and £60M bids, especially if they get a replacement soon and the deal could be reactivated.”

Minteh wants Liverpool move

Minteh is believed to favour a deal to join Liverpool - a club who have had an eye on the African talent since 2024. He was a star on loan from Newcastle at Feyenoord under Arne Slot before the Dutchman moved to Anfield.

The left-footer has been in Liverpool’s sights ever since then - although right now he is suffering from a leg injury and not expected to play until October or November.