Liverpool legend Michael Owen believes signing PSG star Bradley Barcola could help the Reds push for the Premier League title.
Michael Owen believes Liverpool’s pursuit of Bradley Barcola is crucial to their title hopes this season. Arne Slot departed after the Merseyside club finished fifth in the Premier League last season, and Andoni Iraola now leads the rebuild, facing a squad that has undergone significant changes.
The Reds have added Jeremy Jacquet, Ronald Araujo on loan and Spanish winger Victor Munoz so far, but their attacking options remain a concern. Mohamed Salah has departed, while Hugo Ekitike is facing a lengthy absence after suffering an Achilles injury. Barcola has therefore emerged as one of Liverpool’s leading targets, although PSG’s reported £145 million valuation currently represents a major obstacle.
While talking about Liverpool’s need for more firepower, Owen told Metro via Sky Sports: “I do think Liverpool need more, but it looks like Barcola is the one they want and it will cost them a huge amount of money to get him in,”
“But if they can do that and add more depth, more quality, then they can really challenge for the title.”
Why is Barcola interested in a move away?
The 23-year-old has developed into one of European football’s most exciting young attackers since moving to PSG from Lyon in 2023. His pace, direct running and technical quality have made him an important part of Luis Enrique’s squad, although he was not a guaranteed starter last season.
Barcola finished the 2025/26 campaign with 13 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances across all competitions, despite playing only 2,971 minutes. However, he found himself on the bench in key fixtures, which frustrated the French international and has led to all the talk about his future.
The fact that he didn’t feature in their UEFA Super Cup win over Aston Villa might be a sign that there are high chances of him switching clubs before the end of the window. Barcola’s versatility, pace and technical quality directly address Liverpool’s need for attacking depth; as a result, the Reds going all out for him makes a lot of sense.
Owen also highlighted the scale of the challenge awaiting Iraola after Slot’s departure.
“Last season at Liverpool wasn’t great, the style of play deteriorated and they conceded far too many goals.”
“But Slot leaving and Iraola replacing him means a new style of play. He brings a lot of excitement from the way he played at Bournemouth, but Liverpool’s stature brings far greater pressure.”
Whether Liverpool can meet PSG’s £145 million valuation will likely determine if Iraola’s side can mount a title challenge. For now, negotiations continue between the two clubs; however, recent reports suggest Arsenal could try to hijack the deal.