Liverpool are keeping tabs on Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye, but the 18-year-old is not currently their first-choice target as the Reds prioritise a move for his PSG team-mate Bradley Barcola.
Mbaye has emerged as an option as Liverpool continue looking for another attacking player, but the latest information suggests the club's interest should not be mistaken for an imminent transfer.
Mbaye Is on the Shortlist — But Not at the Top
French journalist Romain Molina has provided the clearest explanation of Liverpool's position.
According to Molina, Mbaye is on Liverpool's shortlist but not their No. 1 choice.
That distinction matters.
Liverpool have been linked with a possible move for the young PSG winger, but their recruitment strategy appears to be centred first on securing Barcola.
Mbaye therefore remains a potential option rather than the main target.
Barcola Remains Liverpool's Priority
Barcola's situation is considerably more advanced.
Liverpool have been pursuing the France international for much of the summer, with reports indicating that he remains their preferred PSG attacking target.
Personal terms have also reportedly been agreed, although negotiations between Liverpool and PSG over the transfer fee remain unresolved.
That explains why Mbaye's name has generated some confusion.
Liverpool can admire both players without necessarily intending to sign them both.
The club's immediate priority appears to be Barcola.
Why Liverpool Like Mbaye
Mbaye's appeal is obvious.
The teenager is a versatile wide attacker with pace, technical ability and significant potential.
He has already gained senior experience with PSG despite competing for places in an exceptionally talented attack.
But his situation at PSG is becoming increasingly complicated.
The French champions have several attacking options, including Barcola, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué and new signing Maghnes Akliouche. PSG are also pursuing further attacking reinforcements.
That could eventually make Mbaye's future one of the stories to watch before the transfer window closes.
The Price Could Be a Problem
PSG are reportedly valuing Mbaye at more than €50 million, which would represent a significant investment in a player who is still only 18.
Liverpool must therefore decide whether Mbaye represents enough value to justify such an outlay.
The club already faces a huge financial challenge if it wants to sign Barcola, with reports suggesting PSG's asking price for their France winger remains extremely high.
A double raid would require an enormous investment.
Liverpool Have Other Options
Mbaye and Barcola are not the only attacking players Liverpool have been monitoring.
The Reds have also been linked with Yankuba Minteh, Matias Fernandez-Pardo, Rayan and Said El Mala as they assess alternatives for their forward line.
That gives Liverpool some flexibility.
If the Barcola negotiations become impossible, the recruitment team already has alternative profiles to consider.
Mbaye could become more important if Liverpool's plans change, but for now he remains behind Barcola in the pecking order.
What Happens Next?
The situation could change quickly as the transfer window approaches its conclusion.
PSG's own recruitment plans may influence the futures of their existing wingers, while Liverpool must balance their desire for attacking reinforcements with the enormous fees being demanded.
For Mbaye, a move away from Paris could offer more regular football.
For Liverpool, however, the message from the latest reports is clear: interest does not equal priority.
The Reds like Mbaye.
But they want Barcola more.
And unless that hierarchy changes, Mbaye remains a possibility rather than Liverpool's main target.
Fan Debate
⚽ Goal: Would you sign Mbaye for Liverpool?
🔥 Fire: Is Barcola the better option?
😲 Shock: Were you surprised Mbaye isn't Liverpool's No. 1 choice?
👍 Like: Should Liverpool pursue both?
💬 Comment: Which winger should Liverpool sign?
Comments (1)
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Anonymous
8/14/2026 at 09:14 PM
🔥🔥