Liverpool have been forced to reconsider their upcoming transfer plans for the January window. Their once-promising pursuit, Antoine Semenyo, is now being connected to Manchester City. The club missing out on Semenyo while juggling multiple injuries and growing uncertainty around Salah’s future has forced them to take immediate action.
Thus, the Reds have now moved their focus to PSG’s Ligue 1 star, Bradley Barcola, to shape their future attack.
Liverpool’s Chase for Antoine Semenyo
Liverpool’s desperation to sign a long-term attacker has been visible for quite some time now. Salah is in the late stages of his career, while in conflict with the coach. Other forwards, such as Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak, are currently out with injuries. The club is thus looking for a sustainable forward to revive their attack.
Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo was one of their options, as he also brings essential Premier League experience with his skills. However, according to reports, Semenyo is currently in talks with Manchester City. This has convinced Liverpool to look for other options.
Bradley Barcola, The “Prime Alternative”?
Reports are listing Liverpool’s new “prime alternative” after the transfer saga with Semenyo. The Reds are reportedly interested in the 23-year-old Paris Saint-Germain winger, Bradley Barcola. They’re looking at him as a long-term solution capable of evolving their attack further. It’s important to note that this interest is not sudden. Liverpool have shown interest in Barcola previously as well.
Barcola finished the 24/25 season with 21 goals and 20 assists across all competitions. His versatility is a major factor as he’s comfortable operating on both flanks while playing on the centre occasionally. His versatility, combined with his dribbling skills, would be something Arne Slot would appreciate highly.
The defending UEFA Champions League winners would be keen to secure the player for a long time. However, there are no major renewal talks as of now between the club and the player’s camp. This has alerted some elite clubs to monitor the situation closely and to approach Barcola in case negotiations stall or collapse with PSG.
Mid-season transfers often come with intrinsic risk. Liverpool have already struggled with their recent expensive signings. This is why they would approach the next transfers with caution rather than rush into a panic purchase and risk another complex transfer.
Potential Long-Term Consequences for the Reds
The news of Antoine Semenyo opting for City has affected Liverpool’s plans for the second half of the season. Salah will be absent probably till late January due to the AFCON. Thus, the Reds will struggle to rotate the attack with his absence and multiple injuries. Their urgency to find an alternative has now intensified, especially considering the busy schedule.
There is a long-term concern as well. Salah’s future is still uncertain amidst trouble with the coach. Liverpool would look for a successor rather than reacting late. Barcola is someone who fits the age criteria to grow into a long-term attacking figure for the next few years. This would help in a successful transition rather than a sudden shock.
There’s also a competitive concern within the league. City would strengthen heavily with Antoine Semenyo, boosting their title hopes. This directly challenges the Reds to find balance in their already weak title race. Securing Barcola could help the club find that balance and prove the club’s unwillingness to give up.
Author’s Insight
As the January transfer window approaches, Liverpool’s response to the Antoine Semenyo setback would be decisive for their future. Barcola could be their next attacker, but the final decision remains to be seen. All eyes will be on Anfield, whether it’s Barcola’s potential signing or Salah’s contract extension, amidst heavy speculation.
As featured on Walkon.com
