Liverpool confirms £124m Barcola signing, praises his mentality ahead of Ipswich clash
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed that new signing Bradley Barcola joined the club with the "right mentality" after expressing strong desire to move from Paris Saint-Germain. The France winger became Liverpool's second-most expensive signing in history when he transferred for a fee of up to £124 million ($167 million), second only to the £125 million paid for Alexander Isak last year.
Iraola, who has started his Anfield tenure with two Premier League draws, said Barcola would be available for Liverpool's Friday match at Ipswich following Thursday's training session. The left-winger will join an expensively assembled attack that includes Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz. While his arrival raises questions about the future of Cody Gakpo, Iraola described the Gabon international as a "very valuable player" he's happy to keep.
The Spaniard welcomed the summer signings of Barcola, Jeremy Jacquet, and Victor Munoz, stating the club pursued only those deals that improved the team both sporting and economically. With quality now in the squad, Iraola emphasized it's time to develop what they have rather than seek additional transfers.
For Nigerian Premier League fans tracking Liverpool's project, this signing signals continued ambition under Iraola. Barcola's mentality and immediate availability suggest he could impact the title race quickly, though his integration may affect existing wingers' playing time at Anfield.