€125m superstar makes Liverpool transfer admission

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Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Liverpool forward Bradley Barcola has revealed what Andoni Iraola said to him ahead of his €125 million transfer from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.

The France winger was linked with a Parc des Princes exit for several weeks before his move to Liverpool was finalised, with the 24-year-old eager to leave Luis Enrique’s side in search of more regular game time.

Barcola made 49 appearances across all competitions for PSG last season, but his place in the squad was threatened by the signings of Mika Godts, Ferran Torres and Maghnes Akliouche over the summer and he was quick to seek an exit in a bid for a new opportunity.

Arsenal were also heavily interested in a potential deal for the Frenchman, amid their pursuit of a new left winger to replace Gabriel Martinelli, but the Gunners weren’t willing to meet PSG’s asking price and this allowed Liverpool to swoop.

The 24-year-old is yet to score his first goal for his new club, however he has quickly cemented his place in Iraola’s preferred starting XI and he has now confirmed why he was eager to complete a move to Liverpool after speaking to the Reds manager.

Bradley Barcola confirms reason behind Liverpool transfer

“When I spoke to him before signing, it was about playing out wide, doing what I do best and playing with lots of pace. That’s why he thought I was a good fit for this team,” Barcola told Sky Sports ahead of Liverpool’s clash against Manchester City.

“He knows I attack a lot but also defend a lot. He told me that’s exactly what he needed from me. I’m very happy and hope to repay his trust on the pitch.

“I think my playing style suits him well. He likes direct football and that’s what I prefer. Ultimately, it’s up to me to make the difference on the pitch. If I can do that, everything will go well.”

Meanwhile, Iraola was quick to defend Liverpool’s big-money signing after he received strong criticism from the French press following his performances during the recent international break.

“I don't think he's in a bad moment - the problem with wingers or strikers is if they don't score a goal, 'they haven't played well',” Iraola told reporters.

“We have to see the games, we have to watch. I said it the first game against Atletico Madrid, he missed two or three quite clear chances. I don't care. Honestly. I care but I want him to see (it's) there.

“With the national team, I have seen he has had a couple of good situations to score; he hasn't scored, but I want him to be there.”