The transfer is now official. Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool have simultaneously confirmed the departure of Bradley Barcola to the English club, putting an end to several weeks of speculation surrounding the French forward's future.
The amount of the deal has not been officially disclosed by either club. However, it is reported to be around 125 million euros, with up to 20 million euros in bonuses potentially added, bringing the total to close to 145 million euros. This deal would thus become the biggest sale in PSG's history.
The Dembélé factor
Barcola's departure particularly affected Ousmane Dembélé. The two French internationals had developed a strong bond during their three seasons together in Paris, both on and off the pitch.
After the transfer was made official, Dembélé posted several photos with his former partner on Instagram, accompanied by hearts. He then addressed a particularly affectionate message to the man who will remain his teammate with the French national team:
We're going to miss you, my brother. Good luck in this new chapter, all the best for what comes next.
A tribute that illustrates the relationship built between the two players. Their bond was also visible during PSG's major European fixtures, with Dembélé never hesitating to advise Barcola and encourage him during difficult moments.
An important page turns
Having arrived in Paris at 20 years old, Barcola leaves PSG after three seasons and 13 trophies, including two Champions Leagues. He played 152 matches, scored 39 goals and provided 37 assists in the Paris shirt.
His departure, however, took shape in a particular sporting context. The forward had been left out of PSG's squads since the start of the season as negotiations with Liverpool entered their final phase.
Barcola himself expressed his relief after his transfer was finalised:
It took a lot of time, but I am really happy today to be able to play for Liverpool and all I want is to be on the pitch and to be able to play.
At Liverpool, he now begins a new chapter with the ambition of establishing himself in the Premier League and discovering a new European challenge.
In Paris, his departure could at the same time further strengthen Dembélé's role. The 2025 Ballon d'Or winner is expected to stay at PSG and extend his Parisian adventure, with discussions over a new contract said to be well advanced.
Barcola leaves Paris with a considerable trophy haul. Dembélé, meanwhile, stays to continue the story. But the Ballon d'Or winner's message probably sums up better than anything else the human dimension of this departure: a teammate leaves, but a 'brother' remains.
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