Liverpool’s transfer window has been quieter than many expected, but the arrival of Bradley Barcola could change everything. Andoni Iraola’s first season in charge promises tactical variety, with the Reds’ new head coach already plotting multiple starting line-ups depending on squad availability and incoming deals. The French winger, coveted by PSG, is the missing piece in Iraola’s evolving blueprint—one that could redefine how Liverpool attack in transition.
Three ways Liverpool could line up with Barcola
Iraola’s preferred system remains the 4-2-3-1, a formation he trusted at Bournemouth, and Barcola’s arrival would allow Liverpool to deploy a fluid front three. Alisson is expected to retain his place in goal, while Virgil van Dijk and Jeremie Frimpong—now a fully fledged right wing-back—would anchor a back four alongside Jeremy Jacquet. The midfield double pivot of Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch would provide balance, with Florian Wirtz pulling the strings behind Alexander Isak.
Barcola’s arrival would shift Rio Ngumoha to the right, a role Iraola experimented with in pre-season during Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Wrexham. The Frenchman’s directness and creativity would add another dimension to Liverpool’s attack, complementing Isak’s movement and Wirtz’s vision. Alternatively, a 3-4-3 could emerge if Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez remain sidelined, with Milos Kerkez and Andrew Robertson providing width from wing-back positions. In this system, Barcola would operate as the left-sided attacking midfielder, with Ngumoha on the right and Wirtz central.
Iraola’s willingness to adapt was evident during Liverpool’s pre-season, where he rotated personnel to test different shapes. With Ekitike and Giovanni Leoni also unavailable, the new boss must finalise his squad before the Premier League opener against Newcastle in three weeks.
Barcola transfer gains momentum
Liverpool’s pursuit of Barcola has taken a decisive turn, with negotiations gathering pace. PSG’s financial demands remain high—£145m—but their hand is weakening as they near deals for Mika Godts and Maghnes Akliouche. The French champions are preparing for life after Barcola, and Liverpool’s improved bid reflects their urgency to secure the winger before the window tightens.
The Reds’ transfer activity has lagged behind rivals, but Iraola’s influence is already reshaping the squad. Victor Munoz, signed from Villarreal, is expected to bolster midfield depth, while Jacquet recovers from injury to add defensive cover. The window is far from closed, and Barcola’s potential arrival could trigger further moves.
Elsewhere, Inter Milan’s pursuit of Curtis Jones has intensified, with a £30m bid on the table. Liverpool have rejected previous offers, valuing Jones at £35m, but the Serie A champions are undeterred. The midfielder’s contract expires next summer, and his future remains a key storyline.
Iraola’s defensive dilemma
Liverpool’s pre-season has been disrupted by injuries, forcing Iraola to improvise. The absence of Conor Bradley, Joe Gomez, and Ekitike has exposed gaps in the squad, particularly in defence. The new boss has made clear his preference for a high-pressing system, but personnel shortages have limited his ability to implement it fully.
With Ibrahima Konaté departing and Van Dijk nearing 33, Liverpool need defensive reinforcements to sustain their title ambitions. Barcola’s arrival would ease some of that pressure by adding attacking balance, but Iraola’s defensive reinforcements remain the priority. The Premier League opener against Newcastle looms, and the new boss must finalise his squad before then.
The next fortnight will define Iraola’s first season—and Liverpool’s title hopes. With the window still open, Liverpool’s transfer activity is poised to accelerate. Barcola’s potential signing could be the catalyst for a tactical revolution, but the Reds cannot afford another trophyless campaign. The clock is ticking, and defensive upgrades must follow if Iraola is to deliver on his promises.
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