Liverpool identifies 4 alternatives to replace Mohamed Salah under pressure from the FA
Liverpool FC is facing a crucial stage in its recent history, as the Reds' management has intensified its efforts to find a strategic replacement for Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, amid persistent reports of Saudi club Al-Ittihad's renewed interest in acquiring the services of the "Egyptian Pharaoh" during the upcoming summer transfer window.
These moves come as part of the fallout from the saga that began last summer, when Liverpool rejected a record-breaking offer exceeding £150 million from the Saudi Arabian club. With Salah's contract nearing its end in the summer of 2025, the English club's management understands that the upcoming transfer window could be their last chance to secure a substantial transfer fee, or risk losing him for free. This makes finding a replacement a top priority for manager Arne Slott and sporting director Richard Hughes.
List of candidates to replace the Egyptian legend
According to the British newspaper Daily Express, Liverpool scouts have compiled a shortlist of promising players to fill the significant void that the team's top scorer might leave. The most prominent names are as follows:
1. Jan Diamandi (Leipzig)
The report indicated that RB Leipzig winger Yann Diomande tops the list as one of the most promising young options. The player is valued at around £87 million, a figure reflecting his rising market value. However, it won't be easy, as Liverpool faces stiff competition from local rivals Manchester United and Arsenal, who are closely monitoring the player's progress to bolster their attacking options.
2. Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain)
French talent Bradley Barcola has entered the radar of the English club. Despite his recent move to Paris Saint-Germain, his lack of a guaranteed starting place under coach Luis Enrique could pave the way for his departure. Liverpool sees Barcola as a long-term option whose speed and skill would suit the team's style of play, particularly in attacking transitions.
3. Rafinha (Barcelona)
Brazilian midfielder Rafinha, formerly of Leeds United and currently with Barcelona, remains a strong option for Liverpool. Rafinha's prior experience in the Premier League would significantly reduce his adaptation time. While Barcelona are keen to retain him as a key player, their current financial difficulties could force them to sell one of their stars if a lucrative offer arrives from the Premier League – a scenario Liverpool are closely monitoring.
4. Michael Ulisse (Bayern Munich)
The list also included the name of Michael Ullis, who recently transferred to Bayern Munich. Ullis is a talent who previously proved his worth in the Premier League with Crystal Palace. However, this deal appears to be the most complicated, as the player is under a long-term contract with the Bavarian giants that runs until 2029, meaning that Bayern's management is under no financial or contractual pressure to let him go at this time.
The potential impact of Salah's departure
Mohamed Salah's move to the Saudi Professional League via Al-Ittihad will not be just a player transfer, but a sporting event of global significance. Salah has been an icon for Liverpool over the past decade, and his departure will necessitate a complete overhaul of their attack. Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad is looking to bolster its squad with a world-class star to compete with Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, capitalizing on the player's and his entourage's growing openness to a new challenge in the Arab region.
