Liverpool have been urged to sign Paris Saint-Germain attacking duo Bradley Barcola or Desire Doue ahead of the new season.
Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock has urged the Reds to prioritise either Bradley Barcola or Desire Doue, insisting proven quality is essential if the club is to compete for major honours next season.
Speaking exclusively to TEAMtalk, Warnock outlined the type of attacking reinforcement he believes new manager Andoni Iraola should demand before the summer transfer window closes.
With Mohamed Salah no longer at Anfield, Liverpool are expected to continue searching for a winger capable of leading the club’s next generation in attack. While several names have been linked with the Merseyside outfit, Warnock believes Paris Saint-Germain duo Barcola and Doue stand out because of their experience at the highest level despite their young age.
“It’s an interesting one. Do you go after Bradley Barcola? He predominantly plays on the left, but we know he’s capable of playing on both sides,” Warnock said.
The French winger has established himself as one of Europe’s brightest attacking talents after helping PSG enjoy continued success. Comfortable operating across the frontline, Barcola has developed into a complete attacker capable of scoring, creating chances and stretching opposition defences with his pace.
Why Liverpool should push for the PSG duo?
Warnock believes that versatility, combined with his experience, makes him an ideal fit for Liverpool’s current needs.
“The great thing about him is his age and, crucially, we already know he’s good enough at the very highest level. He’s played Champions League football, international football and proven himself already.”
Rather than gambling on a youngster who still needs years of development, Warnock insists Liverpool should focus on players capable of making an immediate impact under Iraola.
“I don’t think Liverpool are in a position right now where they can buy the next Mohamed Salah or Sadio Mane-type project and hope they become elite. I think Liverpool need to buy players who are ready to go and perform immediately.”
That belief is also why he mentioned PSG teammate Desire Doue as an ideal option. The versatile French attacker has risen rapidly through Europe’s elite ranks and is regarded as one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards. Alongside Barcola, he played a significant role in PSG’s back-to-back Champions League triumph and already possesses valuable experience on the biggest stage.
“For me, I’d look at Barcola or Désiré Doué if Liverpool could somehow get either of them. If they can’t, they’ll have to try and unearth another gem and hope he develops into that player.”
Whether Liverpool can persuade PSG to release either player is uncertain, but Warnock believes the club should at least test the waters. In his view, signing one of the Champions League-winning duo would significantly strengthen Iraola’s squad and increase Liverpool’s chances of challenging for silverware next season.
Recent reports have suggested that Barcola wasn’t pleased with the amount of game time he had last season and could look for a move away. As a result, they could actually try to lure the French international to Anfield with a prominent role. Not only will he bolster the flanks, but he will also be a quality backup for the number nine position.