By Peter Omopo
Liverpool are closing in on a major move for Paris Saint Germain winger Bradley Barcola as the summer transfer window enters its decisive stages, while Nottingham Forest have completed a club record deal for Chelsea striker Liam Delap.
Liverpool’s pursuit of Barcola has gathered pace after months of negotiations, with the France international remaining a priority target as manager Andoni Iraola looks to strengthen his attacking options.
Recent reports indicate that Liverpool have reached an agreement in principle with Barcola over personal terms, although negotiations with Paris Saint Germain have remained more complicated. The French champions have demanded a substantial fee for the 23 year old winger.
Liverpool have previously been reported to have made an opening offer of about €115 million, equivalent to approximately £98.5 million, for Barcola. Further talks between the clubs have continued as the Reds attempt to finalise the transfer.
Barcola has emerged as Liverpool’s leading target for a wide attacking position following significant changes to the club’s forward line. The winger’s pace, versatility and ability to operate from the left have made him an attractive option for the Premier League champions.
Liverpool have also explored alternatives, including Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh, after a reported £50 million bid for the Gambian was rejected. However, Barcola remains the club’s preferred target.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of Liam Delap from Chelsea in a club record deal worth up to £50 million.
The transfer is understood to comprise an initial £45 million fee plus a further £5 million in potential add ons. Delap has signed a five year contract with Forest.
The 23 year old striker joined Chelsea from Ipswich Town last summer for £30 million but struggled to establish himself, scoring just two goals in 41 appearances for the London club, according to Sky Sports. Chelsea could therefore make a profit of up to £20 million from his departure.
Delap becomes Forest’s most expensive signing, surpassing the previous club record for Omari Hutchinson. He is expected to provide additional attacking options for Oliver Glasner alongside Chris Wood and Igor Jesus.
The move also represents a fresh opportunity for Delap after he was reportedly left out of Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso’s plans for the new season.
Forest had moved quickly to secure the England international after talks with his representatives began earlier in the week, beating competition from other Premier League clubs interested in the striker.
With the transfer window approaching its September 1 deadline, Liverpool’s efforts to complete the Barcola deal and Forest’s record investment in Delap underline the increasingly intense activity among Premier League clubs as they finalise their squads for the new campaign.
