Video) Reported Liverpool transfer target sends out a statement with instant World Cup impact

Liverpool's transfer pursuit intensified as Andoni Iraola targets attacking options, with reports linking RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande and Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola to the Reds. Barcola, 23, did not feature as a starter in France's World Cup opener but quickly announced his presence when used off the bench. Fabrizio Romano has suggested Liverpool are 'keen' on Barcola, presenting two different profile possibilities for a forward line that already includes several world-class options. The bid signals Liverpool's willingness to gamble on high-upside talent while monitoring Diomande's availability.

France began their World Cup campaign against Senegal in New Jersey and won 3-1 after Barcola entered in the 80th minute. A few minutes later, Adrien Rabiot delivered a through ball that found Barcola behind the Senegalese defence, and he dinked the ball over Edouard Mendy to double the lead. Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele was substituted on for Barcola later, underscoring Barcola's value as a bench option as Les Bleus pressed their advantage and prepared for their next Group I match against Iraq.