Liverpool FC have confirmed the squad number for their new record signing, winger Bradley Barcola. The France international, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth £106 million potentially rising to £123 million, will wear the number 29 shirt at Anfield.
Barcola's move was officially confirmed this week after he signed a five-year contract with the Premier League side. The Independent Football reported that the 28-cap Frenchman was determined to join Liverpool despite interest from other clubs, citing the atmosphere at Anfield as a major draw. "I had the chance to play twice in this stadium and I saw the atmosphere and how the fans were behind the Liverpool players," Barcola said. He added, "When I knew about Liverpool's interest in me, I didn't ask questions and I knew it was a very big club for me."
The number 29 holds a unique significance for Bradley Barcola, one not tied to a Liverpool legend. He wore the same shirt during his time at Paris Saint-Germain. His choice was inspired by Alex Hunter, the fictional protagonist from the story mode 'The Journey' in EA Sports' FIFA video game series. This personal connection outweighed the option of taking the vacant number 11 shirt, which was left available following Mohamed Salah's departure from the club.
Barcola's arrival is part of a sustained period of heavy investment at Anfield. Last summer, the club broke the bank to sign Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz for combined fees exceeding £100 million. This summer has also seen senior arrivals in defender Victor Munoz and midfielder Jeremy Jacquet. Further business could be on the horizon, with the club considering an offer from Manchester City for forward Cody Gakpo.
Bradley Barcola joins a Liverpool side that finds itself in 13th place in the Premier League after two games. They have drawn both matches, earning two points, and have scored four goals while conceding four. This leaves them four points behind early leaders Manchester City. The immediate focus turns to the next fixture, an away trip to face 12th-placed Ipswich on September 4th. Fans can track the team's progress on the official standings page.
The French winger brings a winning pedigree, having been part of the PSG squads that won back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles in 2025 and 2026. He came off the bench in both finals. His ambition aligns with the club's need to climb the table. "I hope to achieve big things and win the Premier League," Barcola stated. He emphasized his long-term commitment, explaining that the five-year deal was signed because he wants to stay with the team for the foreseeable future.
The addition of Barcola provides a significant boost to Liverpool's attacking options as they seek to improve their early-season form. His experience at the highest level in Europe will be vital for a squad looking to close the gap at the top of the table. Supporters can examine the full roster and how it shapes up on the club's squad page.
With the transfer window now closed, manager and players must focus on converting draws into wins. The upcoming match at Portman Road presents an opportunity to secure a first victory of the campaign. Barcola, now officially assigned the number 29, will be eager to make his debut and start repaying the club's substantial investment. His first chance could come as soon as the fixture against Ipswich Town.
