Liverpool's pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye has hit a major obstacle, with the teenage forward reportedly becoming frustrated by the prolonged negotiations and now open to considering other options.
The latest development comes as Liverpool continue trying to strengthen their attack before the summer transfer window closes.
According to L'Équipe, the Senegal international is increasingly prepared to explore alternative clubs after talks with PSG dragged on.
Mbaye growing frustrated with Liverpool talks
Liverpool have been working on a deal for Mbaye, but negotiations have reportedly stalled over the French champions' valuation.
A significant gap of around €20 million is understood to remain between what Liverpool are prepared to offer and PSG's demands. That disagreement has now created uncertainty over whether the transfer can be completed.
Mbaye's reported frustration adds another layer to the situation.
Rather than continuing to wait indefinitely, the 18-year-old is now said to be open to speaking with other interested clubs.
That does not necessarily mean Liverpool's pursuit is over, but the Reds may need to accelerate their efforts if they want to keep the player committed to a move to Anfield.
Liverpool face another attacking dilemma
The potential setback comes at a difficult time for Liverpool.
The club are looking to rebuild their attacking options following Mohamed Salah's departure, while their pursuit of Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh has also encountered resistance after a reported £50 million bid was rejected.
Mbaye was viewed as one possible solution.
The Senegalese youngster enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with PSG last season, making 24 Ligue 1 appearances and recording three goals and two assists, while also featuring in the Champions League.
[TalkSport]
His versatility and potential have made him an attractive option for Liverpool.
The Barcola situation could also matter
Liverpool's wider interest in PSG attackers has centred heavily around Bradley Barcola.
Barcola's future in Paris has been uncertain amid reports that he is unhappy with his role under Luis Enrique and wants a move. Liverpool have been monitoring the situation, but PSG's valuation has also created complications.
[TEAMtalk]
That has made Mbaye an increasingly important alternative.
Recent reports have suggested Liverpool have even reached an agreement on personal terms with Mbaye, although a deal between the clubs remains the key obstacle.
[FourFourTwo]
The contradiction between those reports and the latest claims of Mbaye considering other options highlights just how fluid the situation remains.
Liverpool must decide quickly
With the transfer window approaching its final days, Liverpool cannot afford for negotiations to drift indefinitely.
The Reds have already seen several attacking targets prove difficult to secure, and losing Mbaye after investing significant time in the negotiations would leave another gap to address.
For PSG, meanwhile, the situation provides leverage.
The French champions know Liverpool are under pressure to strengthen, and they have little reason to accept a valuation they consider too low.
The next stage of negotiations could therefore determine whether Mbaye eventually arrives at Anfield or becomes another Liverpool target who slips away.
For now, the transfer is not dead — but Liverpool's pursuit of Ibrahim Mbaye is clearly facing a serious test.
Fan Debate
🔥 FIRE: Should Liverpool pay PSG's asking price for Mbaye?
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⚽ GOAL: Is Mbaye the right player to help replace Salah's attacking output?
👍 LIKE: Would you rather Liverpool sign Mbaye or Barcola?
💬 COMMENT: Should Liverpool walk away if PSG refuse to lower their valuation?
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