Liverpool have won only five Premier League matches in September and qualification for the Champions League is suddenly looking like an uphill battle for the defending champions of the English top-flight.
Chelsea and Manchester United have picked up form in recent weeks, which is set to make the race for a top five berth very competitive and failure in reaching the European Cup or picking up a major trophy could result in Arne Slot’s dismissal.
Xabi Alonso is thought to be waiting in the wings as his replacement. The Spaniard is prepared to take over a new club as soon as he possibly can after Real Madrid sacked him earlier this month after defeat in the Spanish Super Cup.
According to Caught Offside, Alonso has told Liverpool that they would need to sign Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer if they are to hire him, with the former Bayer Leverkusen boss hoping to significantly revamp the team’s attack.
Barcola likely to replace Salah
Bradley Barcola has been a key part of Paris Saint-Germain’s plans under Luis Enrique and did a fantastic job last season as the French outfit won the Champions League. However, his role has reduced this season, prompting rumours of a new venture.
His ability to contribute directly in the final third down the right flank makes him an ideal target for Liverpool to replace Mohamed Salah, especially as there are not too many great right wingers in the market, let alone left-footed options.
With a place in Arne Slot’s plans already difficult to regain, Salah might slip further down the pecking order under Xabi Alonso next season and with some key decisions set to be taken soon, Barcola could emerge as the long-term option for the Reds.
The 23-year-old is a superb dribbler and his acceleration makes him one of the world’s most rapid out-wide players. While his finishing can improve, he remains a potent option in the final third and an ideal replacement for a player of Salah’s calibre.
Barcola is valued at £60 million on Transfermarkt and is a very affordable option for Liverpool. That said, it will be interesting to see if Alonso’s wish is granted if he replaces Slot or if the board makes a decision over who must be signed.
