Liverpool has 'three transfer alternatives' for Bradley Barcola already lined up

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Liverpool has started stepping up its pursuit of Bradley Barcola and is set to make an opening bid for the winger, but still has alternatives in mind in case a deal does not materializeBradley Barcola has been linked with a move to Liverpool this summer(Image: Getty Images)Liverpool finds itself at a crucial stage of the summer transfer window as it steps up its interest in Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.The Reds have been in desperate need of attacking reinforcements this summer after failing to replace Luis Diaz 12 months ago, Hugo Ekitike's long-term injury and Mohamed Salah's departure following the mutual termination of his contract. They have already made one addition with the acquisition of Spanish attacker Victor Munoz from La Liga side Osasuna, but there is still work to be done before the deadline.Barcola has long been linked with a switch to Anfield, with rumors first emerging 12 months ago following Diaz's exit.

With Liverpool at the table, it appears the 23-year-old is ready for a fresh challenge elsewhere, and Anfield is said to be his preferred destination at this stage.That being said, although news broke Wednesday afternoon that the Reds are preparing their first bid for Barcola, a move is not as straightforward as Liverpool would like. PSG appears likely to miss out on its top target, Yan Diomande, with Real Madrid having entered the race for the RB Leipzig winger, while a staggering £145 million ($192 million) price tag has been placed on Barcola.If a deal for Liverpool's primary target proves too expensive, or PSG simply refuses to sell, the club is rumored to have a number of different options on its shortlist.

Defence should also be a priority for the recruitment team following Ibrahima Konate's departure as a free agent and Joe Gomez's latest injury setback in the recent friendly against Sunderland.In the meantime, Liverpool's preseason preparations continue with a game against Wrexham in New York City. The Reds will then take on Leeds United before returning to England for friendlies against Monaco and Como at Anfield.Andoni Iraola will no doubt hope to have the majority of the club's business completed before Liverpool's Premier League campaign kicks off against Newcastle on August 23.