Matt Smith is a football writer covering the Premier League and exclusive news for GIVEMESPORT. Matt joined the company in March 2023 and is an avid Everton supporter who regularly attends games in his spare time
He has previously worked for CaughtOffside where he covered world football including transfers, match reports, previews, and more.
He also creates tactical analysis social media content and regularly appears on podcasts. After spending a few years coaching, playing, and analysing football, Matt moved over to the writing side of the game a few years ago.
Matt also works in commentary and match reporting, providing detailed analysis on some of the biggest games in England and Europe, with his reports regularly published on the Premier League website.
He has amassed over 28,000 followers on X by giving his insight on football, predominantly focusing on the tactical side of the game.
Liverpool have reportedly opened talks to sign PSG forward Bradley Barcola, and he would be a huge upgrade on Cody Gakpo on the left-hand side of attack.
It’s been a disappointing campaign for Arne Slot’s side, struggling to replicate the kind of performances that saw them lift the Premier League title last season. As a result, we could see them look to bring in reinforcements to improve the senior squad in the January transfer window, despite investing significantly in the summer.
Long-term injuries to both Conor Bradley and Alexander Isak could also force their hand in the market, but the January window is notoriously difficult to do business in. It’s unclear what Liverpool’s priority is during the winter, but there’s no doubt another body in attack would be beneficial.
Liverpool Hold Talks to Sign Gakpo Upgrade
Reports have claimed that Liverpool have opened talks over a potential record-breaking move to sign PSG winger Barcola. Liverpool’s interest could be tempting for the French attacker, with Barcola not a guaranteed starter following Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s arrival back in 2025.
Gakpo has been regularly deployed on the left-hand side of attack for Liverpool this season, with Florian Wirtz also an option, but Barcola would be perfect for the position and a better fit than both. Wirtz is starting to pick up some form and is beginning to show why Liverpool invested heavily in him during the summer transfer window, but he’s more of a natural fit to the attacking midfield position.
Barcola is an out-and-out left winger and has become a specialist in that position, described as ‘one of the world’s best’ by Como scout Ben Mattinson. The 23-year-old can also play on the right-hand side, so his versatility could make him a useful option for the Reds.
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By Laurynas Puikys
Barcola Could Also Replace Salah at Liverpool
If Mohamed Salah departs, Liverpool need to find a star-studded winger, and Barcola could be that man. Salah’s future is up in the air after recent controversy surrounding his comments made towards Arne Slot, and at the age of 33, he’s reaching the latter stages of his career anyway.
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Barcola, capable of playing on either wing, would likely want straight into Liverpool’s starting XI, and in the long term, become a talisman for the Merseyside club. If the Reds can secure him for a reasonable fee, they should be looking to bring him in as soon as possible.
