Addressing a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah is one of Liverpool’s top transfer priorities.
Though the Egyptian King is signed with Liverpool until 2027, signs suggest he may leave the club sooner.
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Last weekend, Salah reportedly severed ties with coach Arne Slot, expressing that their relationship is nonexistent after being benched for three consecutive matches.
He also indicated that some individuals might want him out of the club, sparking speculation about a potential January transfer.
Salah Severs Ties
Meanwhile, Salah has headed to Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt, leaving uncertainty regarding his club future after he returns from international duty.
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Reports indicate that Saudi Arabian clubs are preparing to entice Salah to the SPL, while San Diego FC in MLS aims to add him to their roster for 2026.
If Salah departs, Liverpool will face a significant challenge in filling his position. He has been the top scorer every season since joining from Roma in 2017 and has secured all major honors available to the club.
Identifying a worthy successor for the No. 11 jersey will require exceptional talent, and sources suggest the search has been narrowed down to three candidates.
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According to a recent report from Fichajes, Liverpool is considering Antoine Semenyo, Rodrygo, and Yankuba Minteh.
Liverpool’s Interest in Semenyo and Rodrygo
Semenyo is not a new target, with the Ghana international known to Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes. The 25-year-old signed a new contract over the summer, but could leave Bournemouth if any club triggers a £65m release clause.
Versatile enough to play on either wing, Semenyo has netted six goals in the Premier League this season and would be a solid addition should Salah exit.
Rodrygo presents a more complicated scenario. Liverpool has been tracking the 24-year-old for some time, having shown interest when he left Santos for Real Madrid in 2019.
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Despite winning two Champions League titles, the Brazilian may be looking to leave due to limited playing time under Xabi Alonso. The winger could be available for around £75m and is under contract with Madrid until 2028.
© IMAGO – Yankuba Minteh Liverpool
Minteh as the Ideal Fit
Minteh represents a forward-looking investment. The 21-year-old Gambian transferred from Newcastle to Brighton in 2024 for about £30m, signing a five-year deal with the Seagulls.
This season, he has recorded four assists in the Premier League and appears well-equipped to handle the demands of a higher level.
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Importantly, he has experience working under Arne Slot, having spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Feyenoord where he scored 10 goals and added five assists in what was a standout campaign.
Stylistically, Minteh seems to be the best fit for Liverpool if they want to replicate Salah’s success; otherwise, they may need to alter their approach to accommodate Semenyo or Rodrygo.