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Liverpool are claimed to be “leading the race” to sign Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye, with the French club having already announced his replacement. Mbaye emerged as a surprise target for Liverpool this week as Richard Hughes and his team explore opportunities to bolster Andoni Iraola‘s wide options. The 18-year-old is available for between €40 million (£34.3m) and €50 million (£42.8m) this summer and is open to a move to Anfield. According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool are now “leading the race” for Mbaye ahead of fellow suitors Bayer Leverkusen. Liverpool’s main rival for Ibrahim Mbaye transfer Speaking on GiveMeSport’s ‘Market Madness’ podcast, Romano said: “There is genuine interest in Ibrahim Mbaye, there is a conversation with the new agent of the player, Jorge Mendes. “Bayer Leverkusen were pushing, but now Liverpool are leading the race. Let’s see, financially, if they can reach an agreement with PSG.” L’Equipe report that Leverkusen had an offer rejected, while positive talks with RB Leipzig broke down when it became clear Yan Diomande would not be leaving the German side for PSG. Bayern Munich, Man City, Man United, Aston Villa and Chelsea are all claimed to hold an interest but journalist Loic Tanzi writes that “two projects seem to stand out: Liverpool and Dortmund.” Dortmund are, however, pursuing Koln’s Said El Mala – also considered an option for Liverpool – with Sky Germany reporting on X that a third offer worth €40 million (£34.3m) is being prepared. Liverpool were previously described as Mbaye’s “priority” and a move to Anfield makes sense for a number of reasons, not least the desperate need for reinforcement in Iraola’s attack. Having only turned 18 in January – and already with 42 career appearances for PSG and 15 caps for Senegal – he would not need to be registered as a senior player in the Premier League and would qualify as homegrown after his 21st birthday. Though primarily a right winger, Mbaye is also capable of operating on the left wing, and Iraola has already made clear that this versatility is the best route into his starting lineup. PSG have laid out their plans for the teenager, with a similar, bit-part role in store under Luis Enrique if he stays, and the Ligue 1 champions confirmed the signing of a new right winger on Thursday evening. Maghnes Akliouche completed a €50 million (£42.8m) move to PSG after an enquiry from Liverpool, which should free Mbaye up for an exit – as well as increasing the chances of Bradley Barcola also arriving on Merseyside.