Liverpool’s transfer strategy has come under fresh scrutiny after club legend Jamie Carragher questioned the Reds’ reported interest in Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.
With Liverpool believed to be preparing talks over a potential move for the French attacker, Carragher has made it clear he does not see Barcola as the solution to one of the club’s biggest long-term challenges — replacing Mohamed Salah.
The former Liverpool defender insists the Reds are focusing on the wrong side of the attack, arguing that strengthening the right wing should be the priority rather than adding another player who naturally operates from the left.
As Liverpool continue reshaping the squad under new head coach Andoni Iraola, recruitment decisions are expected to define the club’s ambitions for the 2026/27 campaign.
While several attacking options are already available on the left, Carragher believes there remains a glaring imbalance in the squad.
Responding to reports linking Liverpool with Barcola, Carragher was quick to dismiss suggestions that the French international could eventually replace Salah.
When asked whether Barcola could become Liverpool’s next right-sided star, Carragher replied: “No, he plays on the opposite flank!”
He then explained why he believes Liverpool already possess enough quality on the left side of their attack.
“LFC currently have three players who could play from the left in Rio [Ngumoha], [Cody] Gakpo and [Florian] Wirtz, and no one who plays from the right.”
His comments reflect growing concerns among supporters about Liverpool’s attacking balance, especially with Salah approaching the latter stages of his Anfield career.
Carragher expanded on his viewpoint after another supporter suggested teenage prospect Rio Ngumoha could switch flanks. He remained unconvinced.
“Rio has always played from the left so that’s obviously his best position.”
Carragher also questioned how Liverpool’s midfield and attacking structure would function if Florian Wirtz occupied the No. 10 role.
“Gakpo should move really but who knows. I’m interested to see where Wirtz plays. If he’s 10, Dom [Szoboszlai] plays centre mid.”
His comments underline a wider tactical debate surrounding Iraola’s preferred formation and how Liverpool’s new signings will fit into the system.
For years, Mohamed Salah has been Liverpool’s primary attacking outlet from the right flank, delivering goals, assists and consistency at the highest level.
Finding a player capable of replicating that influence has become one of the club’s biggest long-term recruitment challenges.
While Barcola is widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young wingers, his strongest performances have almost exclusively come from the left, making Carragher sceptical that he addresses Liverpool’s most pressing need.
Rather than adding another left-sided attacker, the former defender believes Liverpool should invest in a specialist right winger capable of naturally filling Salah’s role.
Liverpool’s recruitment under Andoni Iraola remains a work in progress, with several new faces already arriving as preparations continue for the new Premier League season.
The Spanish coach is gradually implementing his tactical philosophy during pre-season, while evaluating young talents alongside established stars.
Whether Liverpool eventually pursue Barcola or switch their attention elsewhere remains to be seen, but Carragher’s assessment highlights a concern shared by many supporters.
He summed up Liverpool’s current transfer priority with a simple conclusion: “I’m not sure about that. Need a right winger desperately!”
As the transfer window enters a crucial phase, Liverpool’s next attacking signing could reveal exactly how Iraola plans to reshape the Reds for the future.
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