Liverpool’s interest in PSG winger Mbaye reportedly cools as Reds prioritize other targets
Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy
Liverpool’s pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye appears to have cooled, with reports indicating the club is prioritizing other attacking options. French journalist Romain Molina stated that while Mbaye is on Liverpool’s shortlist, he is not considered the primary target in the final phase of the summer transfer window. This development suggests that the Merseyside club’s interest in Mbaye is not as advanced as previously thought.
Molina also highlighted the role of Mbaye’s agent, Jorge Mendes, suggesting that the player’s future might be more influenced by Mendes’ maneuvers rather than a direct push from Liverpool. The financial demands from PSG are also a significant factor, with reports indicating a combined fee in excess of £150m for Mbaye and his teammate Bradley Barcola.
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool withdrew their interest in Mbaye after being quoted a price of €200 million (£171m) for both Mbaye and Barcola. While Barcola’s deal would account for the majority of this sum, PSG is reportedly asking for between €40 and €50m (£34.2m-£42.7m) for Mbaye alone, a price Liverpool reportedly deems too high.
Alternative Targets and Agent Influence
The situation with Mbaye contrasts with Liverpool’s pursuit of Barcola, whose representation style differs from Mendes’. Molina noted that Mendes’ influence with Liverpool is not the primary driver in this specific instance, particularly given the high figures quoted by the French champions. He drew a distinction between Mendes’ approach, which focuses on connections with club executives, and that of Barcola’s representative, Moussa Sissoko, who is described as being more assertive in advocating for his players’ wishes.
Should a move for Mbaye not materialize due to the asking price or his position on the recruitment list, Liverpool has other options under consideration. The club’s recruitment team has been tracking Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh, Lille’s Matias Fernandez-Pardo, and Bournemouth’s Rayan as potential additions for the wide areas. Another name that has emerged is Koln’s Said El Mala, a versatile forward who can play on either flank or through the middle. El Mala was previously linked with Borussia Dortmund, but reports from Sky Germany indicate that the Bundesliga club has withdrawn from the race, potentially clearing a path for Liverpool if they decide to trigger his reported €50m (£42.7m) release clause.
Mbaye made 31 appearances across all competitions last season, contributing three goals and two assists, though only 11 of these were starts. He primarily plays on the right wing but can also operate on the left. The winger was an unused substitute for PSG’s 2-1 European Super Cup victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday, despite scoring in a 1-1 pre-season draw against Manchester United just four days prior.
Impact on Manchester United’s Pursuit
Liverpool’s reported withdrawal from the race for Mbaye could provide a boost for Manchester United, who have also been linked with the 18-year-old winger. United have reportedly made contact regarding a possible transfer for Mbaye, who scored against Michael Carrick’s side in a pre-season friendly last weekend. Mbaye has already made 41 appearances for PSG.
The potential arrival of Ferran Torres at PSG, with reports suggesting a £42.7 million agreement with Barcelona, could further reduce Mbaye’s playing time. This situation might make PSG more open to a sale or even a loan move for Mbaye, according to reports from AS. If United were to sign Mbaye, he would join other wide attacking options such as Marcus Rashford, Bryan Mbeumo, Amad, Patrick Dorgu, and Shea Lacey for the upcoming season.
Mbaye’s goal against France made him the youngest African player to score at the World Cup 2026, at 18 years and 143 days old. He also became the youngest player to start a game for PSG when he lined up against Le Havre in August 2024, at 16 years, six months and 23 days.
Source: goal.com
Priya Menon 