Journalist shares how close Liverpool came to signing Bradley Barcola last summer and why they didn't

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Liverpool’s search for Mohamed Salah’s long-term successor has taken on fresh urgency, and hindsight is beginning to shape the narrative around missed opportunities. Which players should Liverpool target to replace Mohamed Salah this summer? 🤔 A seven-man shortlist has already been reported:Desire Doue Bradley Barcola Nico Williams Yan Diomande Anthony Gordon Jarrod Bowen Michael OliseCredit: Izzy Poles/AMA/Getty Images Why Liverpool passed on Barcola—and why it matters nowLiverpool’s decision not to pursue Barcola last summer was not down to a lack of admiration, but rather a strategic call aimed at furthering the development of Rio Ngumoha.According to journalist Lewis Steele, a move for the 23-year-old was ‘a bit more advanced’ than other options, such as Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, with Liverpool even offered the chance to sign him last August.

That’s been one of the big issues of the season.”Photo by David Ramos/Getty ImagesREAD MORE: How Morgan Rogers could fit into Liverpool’s summer search for new wingersThe club also explored alternatives, with Steele noting that interest in Antoine Semenyo – and belief that Liverpool could have triggered his release clause from Bournemouth – may have played a part in them turning Barcola down. “I think also the Semenyo release clause thing at Bournemouth, I think they would’ve liked to have Semenyo in an ideal world, whether that was last summer or the January just gone,” he says.Now, with the need for an eventual Salah replacement looming large, the Barcola decision looks like a pivotal ‘what if’ moment for Liverpool.How likely is a Barcola move to Liverpool this summer?A rekindling of a move for Bradley Barcola this summer feels possible but far from straightforward.

Liverpool can only sign ONE England star – who gets your vote Anthony Gordon or Morgan Rogers… Photo Credit: Getty Images/Eddie Keogh/The FA/Michael Regan However, Liverpool’s circumstances have changed. Barcola’s profile – direct, technically sharp, and already performing at elite level – fits exactly what Liverpool lack.Much will depend on PSG’s stance.