Published Aug 21, 2026, 6:07 PM GMT+1

Emilio is an experienced football journalist who has worked at Football FanCast for over six years, specialising in transfer analysis, Premier League reporting and the business of football.
 

After graduating with first-class honours from the University of Central Lancashire in 2019, it didn't take long for Emilio to begin his journalism career at Snack Media, now Valnet.
 

Emilio has a particular interest in football finance, recruitment and the business behind the modern game. In his spare time, you can find Emilio travelling the world, or even in a boxing ring.

The France international emerged as their leading wide target following Mohamed Salah’s departure, and Liverpool entered the window needing greater speed, creativity and depth on both sides of their forward line.

Barcola has reportedly been on their radar since May.

Liverpool made contact with his representatives before opening discussions with PSG, while the prospect of moving to Anfield is understood to appeal to the 23-year-old.

The player has two years remaining on his contract in Paris and has not agreed an extension. That encouraged Liverpool to believe a transfer could be negotiated, but PSG’s demands have made progress difficult.

The European champions placed a valuation of about £145 million on Barcola when preliminary talks began. Liverpool indicated that they were prepared to discuss a package worth more than £87m, so a sizeable difference remained between the clubs.

Further offers have been reported in France, but there has been no confirmed breakthrough. PSG have refused to let Liverpool’s interest or Barcola’s contract position force them into accepting a reduced fee.

Liverpool have continued to treat him as their priority.

The former Lyon winger generally attacks from the left, where his pace can stretch opponents and create room for a central striker.

His arrival alone would not solve every issue in Iraola’s squad.

Salah’s exit left Liverpool without their established left-footed threat from the right, while Cody Gakpo has also attracted interest from Tottenham.

Víctor Muñoz has already been added to the attack, but Iraola admitted before the Premier League opener against Newcastle that Liverpool still needed further signings, particularly in the wide positions.

That search has now produced a major move for a Premier League winger.

Liverpool submit £60m bid for Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh

Fabrizio Romano reports that Liverpool have submitted a proposal worth £60 million for Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh after reaching an agreement over personal terms with the player.

Brighton rejected an earlier offer of £50 million, but Liverpool have returned with an improved package. Romano says negotiations are underway and the Reds are optimistic that an agreement can be reached.

Crucially, Minteh is not being pursued as an alternative to Barcola.

Liverpool want both wingers and intend to continue discussions with PSG while trying to close a separate deal with Brighton.

Minteh joined Brighton from Newcastle in 2024 after spending the previous season on loan with Feyenoord.

The 22-year-old is a left-footed right-winger, making him a natural candidate for the side previously controlled by Salah.

The Gambia international is recovering from a leg injury suffered during preseason. He underwent surgery and is expected to miss several weeks, so Liverpool are considering his longer-term role.

Brighton have Minteh under contract until 2029 and are under no pressure to sell. They have also lost Danny Welbeck and are without the injured Kaoru Mitoma.

Liverpool’s improved proposal has not yet been accepted. However, personal terms are in place and talks are continuing as the Reds pursue Minteh without abandoning Barcola.