The stats that show 'left winger by trade' Barcola's strengths
Liverpool FC is considering a move for PSG forward Bradley Barcola to replace the departing Mohamed Salah. Statistical analysis suggests Barcola's playing style and goal-scoring instincts closely mirror those of Luis Diaz, making him a strong candidate for the team's attacking needs.
Why it matters
The analysis demonstrates how modern football clubs use data-driven player similarity models to make high-stakes transfer decisions.
Liverpool have twice paid more than £100m for players - midfielder Florian Wirtz and striker Alexander Isak - and could be about to do so again.
Bradley Barcola moved to Paris St-Germain from Lyon in 2023 for a reported £38.5m fee. He is right footed, although he prefers to play on the left wing, but he can also play on the right or through the middle.
With Mohamed Salah leaving on a free transfer at the end of last season, Liverpool clearly need to strengthen their attack.
At first glance, Barcola looks like the natural successor to Luis Diaz, with the underlying data suggesting the forward could fill that void.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in