Bradley Barcola is the name on every Liverpool fans' lips as the club plot a move for the Paris Saint-Germain winger. The Frenchman is reportedly 'open' to joining the Reds but a potential switch isn't imminent, per Fabrizio Romano.
Andoni Iraola has started his Anfield reign without one of the greatest forwards in the club's history. Mohamed Salah left the club at the end of the 2025/26 campaign after a glorious nine-season spell on Merseyside and his departure has to be addressed.
While Barcola plays on the other wing, he ticks all the boxes when it comes to a marquee attacker to try and help deal with Salah's exit. He has shone throughout his time at the Parc des Princes and caught the eye during this summer's World Cup.
If the 23-year-old does arrive, it will comes as a massive boost for two of Iraola's players. But for two others, it could be a massive problem and even lead to a departure.
Winner: Dominik Szoboszlai
There can be no argument over Dominik Szoboszlai's importance in this Liverpool team. The Hungarian midfielder starred for the Reds last season, putting in world class performances despite a disappointing defence of the Premier League title.
Former head coach Arne Slot constantly turned to Szoboszlai to get him out of trouble and he more often that came to the fore. But the 25-year-old is crying out for a similar elite player like Barcola to help get the Merseysiders back challenging for the title.
Loser: Cody Gakpo
A move to Tottenham Hotspur has already been a hot topic in recent days and that might be the catalyst for Liverpool to swoop for Barcola. If Cody Gakpo were to stay and the Frenchman arrives, his chances of game time are jeopardised.
Gakpo comes in and out form and while he does possess a versatile profile, his consistency is an issue. With the left-wing berth up for grabs, he has failed to take it and Iraola seems to be prepared to part ways ahead of the hopeful arrival of Barcola.
Winner: Alexander Isak
An injury-ridden debut season wasn't how Alexander Isak envisioned his start at Anfield. The Swede became the club's record-breaking signing, arriving from Newcastle United last summer for ÂŁ125 million.
When fit, Isak failed to replicate the stunning performances during his time at St James' Park that earned him that move. He is at his best when working in cohesion with wingers much like his connection with Anthony Gordon while on Tyneside.
If Barcola joins the Reds, it could breathe new life into Isak. He will be relishing a player of the Frenchman's calibre joining him in attack.
Loser: Rio Ngumoha
Jamie Carragher recently insisted Liverpool didn't need to sign Barcola and should instead target a Salah replacement on the right wing. You could argue that Rio Ngumoha deserves to take the left-wing position but at just 17 years of age, he's still developing.
That said, his pathway to a regular starting role could be blocked if Barcola joins. And the PSG star is still relatively young which could be a real issue in the long run for the England international.
While his future definitely isn't in doubt, his chances of earning a starting berth in Iraola's team will be. Perhaps the Spaniard will opt to use him on the right of a front three.
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