Liverpool have begun to examine the possible terms of a move for Paris Saint-Germain’s teenage winger Ibrahim Mbaye, an 18‑year‑old who primarily operates on the right flank. Sources close to the club say the young Senegalese international has expressed a genuine desire to join Anfield, and the Reds are treating his situation as a priority in this summer’s market.
The club’s scouting department has identified Mbaye as one of several wide‑area targets aimed at bolstering Liverpool’s attacking width, a clear focus for manager Andoni Iraola in his inaugural season at the helm. While the Reds have also shown a strong interest in Mbaye’s PSG teammate Bradley Barcola, no formal bids have yet been submitted for either player, and the pursuit of Mbaye is being handled independently of any negotiations surrounding Barcola. Financially, the situation is complex. PSG have placed a £145 million price tag on Barcola, which makes that particular deal a daunting prospect for Liverpool.
By contrast, Mbaye’s valuation is considerably lower, offering the English side a more realistic opportunity to secure a high‑potential talent without overextending their budget. It is conceivable that Liverpool could sign Mbaye alongside a more seasoned wide‑player, thereby creating a blend of youthful exuberance and experienced reliability on the wings. Iraola’s tactical blueprint places considerable emphasis on width, especially after the departure of club legend Mohamed Salah at the close of last season. The manager has repeatedly highlighted the importance of dynamic wide men in his philosophy, and the acquisition of a versatile right‑winger like Mbaye fits neatly into that plan.
Liverpool are reportedly aiming to finish the transfer window with a squad of five wingers, one of whom is expected to be a younger prospect earmarked for development. Mbaye’s background adds further intrigue.
He rose through the PSG academy and made his senior debut in August 2024 at just 16 years old. Although he initially represented France at youth level, he switched allegiance to Senegal and earned his first senior cap in November 2025. His rapid rise continued at the 2026 World Cup, where he made history by becoming the youngest African to score in the tournament, netting a goal at 18 years and 143 days in Senegal’s 3‑1 defeat to the host nation.
On the pitch, Mbaye is primarily a right‑winger but has demonstrated the ability to operate on the left flank as well, having featured in both positions for PSG during Champions League fixtures. This two‑sided capability offers Liverpool a valuable tactical option, allowing Iraola to rotate his attacking line‑up without sacrificing balance or intensity. While his statistical output to date leans heavily toward dribbling success rather than goal creation, this is typical for a player still in the early stages of his professional journey. The potential signing also carries a strategic dimension for Liverpool.
PSG appear to be focusing on immediate impact players, as evidenced by their pursuit of 24‑year‑old Maghnes Akliouche. This shift could see Mbaye pushed further down the pecking order in Paris, creating a window of opportunity for Liverpool to acquire a future star at a reasonable cost. Critics might argue that Mbaye’s inexperience poses a risk, especially given the high expectations that come with replacing a figure of Salah’s stature. However, his exposure to top‑level competition in Ligue 1 and the Champions League, combined with his international experience, suggests a maturity beyond his years.
Moreover, his dribbling prowess, coupled with his willingness to adapt to both wings, provides a solid foundation on which Liverpool’s coaching staff can build. If the deal materialises, Mbaye could become the new right‑winger Liverpool have been searching for, offering pace, flair, and a willingness to take on defenders.
His addition would not only address the immediate void left by Salah but also secure a long‑term asset capable of growing alongside the club’s evolving style of play. In summary, Liverpool’s interest in Ibrahim Mbaye reflects a calculated approach to strengthening their flanks with a blend of youth and potential.
While negotiations are still in the early stages and no official offer has been lodged, the club’s strategic focus on width, coupled with Mbaye’s unique skill set and historic achievements at a young age, make him a compelling candidate for Anfield’s next generation of attacking talent.