Liverpool could be forced into the transfer market as early as January following a shocking revelation from Mohamed Salah, whose recent comments have thrown his Anfield future into serious doubt. The Egyptian forward, who signed a contract extension earlier this year signaling his long-term commitment, suggested that he might be playing his final game for the Reds this weekend. His explosive outburst highlighted tensions with manager Arne Slot and criticized the club for allegedly mishandling his situation. Salah’s absence from Liverpool’s squad for the Champions League clash against Inter Milan has only fueled speculation about an imminent departure.
At 33, Salah is one of Liverpool’s most prolific scorers, second only to legends Ian Rush and Roger Hunt. Yet this season, the forward has struggled to find his usual rhythm amid Liverpool’s ongoing challenges under Slot’s management. His world-class talent has attracted attention from clubs abroad, particularly in the Saudi Pro League, and he is likely to have multiple suitors should he leave.
If Liverpool do lose Salah, the club will need a replacement capable of delivering the same attacking threat. Here are five potential options being discussed:
1. Antoine Semenyo Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous wingers, capable of operating effectively on either flank. With six goals and three assists so far this season, the Ghanaian forward has consistently impressed, attracting interest from top clubs. Despite Liverpool’s significant spending in the summer, Semenyo remains linked with a move to Anfield. Reports suggest his £65 million release clause could be activated in January, making him a realistic and proven candidate to fill Salah’s void.
2. Michael Olise Currently starring for Bayern Munich, Michael Olise has firmly established himself as one of Europe’s elite wingers, tallying 29 goals and 36 assists since his move from Crystal Palace. Rumors continue to link the Frenchman with a return to the Premier League, with Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal reportedly monitoring him. While the potential fee and Bayern’s willingness to negotiate remain uncertain, Olise’s Premier League experience and attacking quality make him a highly attractive option for the Reds.
3. Anthony Gordon Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon represents another intriguing possibility. Liverpool previously pursued the England international as recently as summer 2024, although the Reds ultimately passed on a part-exchange deal involving Jarell Quansah. Gordon, now under a fresh contract at St James’ Park, remains a winger with the right skill set to succeed at Anfield. However, securing his services would likely come at a substantial cost, given his rising profile and Newcastle’s reluctance to sell.
4. Yan Diomande Liverpool could also opt to take a gamble on a young talent with massive potential. RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, just 19 years old, has already made waves in Europe with his pace, finishing ability, and attacking instincts, highlighted by a recent hat-trick against Eintracht Frankfurt. While he would be a more affordable alternative to established stars, it remains uncertain whether a teenager with limited experience could immediately replace a player of Salah’s caliber.
5. [Optional – Could add a fifth candidate or leave for further speculation]
As Liverpool navigate this uncertain period, the club faces a delicate balancing act: replacing a superstar with either a proven performer or a promising young talent, all while managing the immediate demands of the Premier League and Champions League campaigns. Salah’s comments have sent shockwaves through Anfield, and the coming weeks could see the Reds embark on one of the most significant transfer decisions of Slot’s tenure.
