Liverpool Eyes Omar Marmoush as Bold January Move Amid Semenyo Race
The January transfer window is always a period of intrigue and speculation, and this winter is shaping up to be no different for Liverpool. With Manchester City poised to secure Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, reports from Anfield suggest that the Reds are quietly considering a high-profile alternative: Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush. Marmoush, who has struggled for consistent playing time at the Etihad, could provide Liverpool with the attacking depth they desperately need as the Premier League title race intensifies.
Marmoush, 26, made the switch to Manchester City from Eintracht Frankfurt in January 2025 for a reported £59 million. At Frankfurt, he established himself as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards, scoring 37 goals and providing 20 assists in 67 appearances. His blistering pace, strength, and clinical finishing earned him comparisons to fellow Egyptian Mohamed Salah, and football legend Ahmed Shobair lauded him as a “distinguished talent and wonderful player” in local media. Expectations were high when he joined City, with fans hoping he could make an immediate impact in England.
However, life at Manchester City has proven challenging. Under Pep Guardiola, Marmoush has featured sparingly, clocking just 206 Premier League minutes across ten appearances this season. He has started only four matches in all competitions and scored a single goal, highlighting the difficulties he has faced in breaking into a star-studded squad. Currently on international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, Marmoush has already made his presence felt, helping his team secure a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe. His strong performances abroad have fueled speculation about a potential exit from Manchester City in search of regular playing time.
Liverpool’s management, including Michael Edwards, Richard Hughes, and manager Arne Slot, reportedly held internal discussions about Marmoush’s availability just yesterday. Sources indicate that this is more than casual chatter; the club is seriously considering him as a contingency option. If City finalize the Semenyo transfer, Marmoush could emerge as the ideal replacement to reinforce Liverpool’s attacking options, particularly with Mohamed Salah’s upcoming international commitments looming.
The Reds’ interest makes strategic sense. While Liverpool sits atop the Premier League table as of late December 2025, concerns over squad depth remain, especially in attack. Semenyo, Bournemouth’s versatile winger, had been a target with eight goals and three assists in 16 league matches, but City’s advanced negotiations and Semenyo’s preference for the Etihad have forced Liverpool to explore alternatives. Marmoush’s skill set—a combination of explosive runs, precise finishing, and the versatility to play across the front line—fits seamlessly into Slot’s high-pressing system, making him an enticing prospect.
A move for Marmoush would not be without its challenges. Securing a player from a direct rival mid-season is rarely straightforward, and Manchester City’s depth could make negotiations difficult. Nevertheless, if Marmoush expresses a desire for more minutes, City may reconsider their stance, particularly if Semenyo joins their squad. Valued at around €77.7 million and under contract until 2029, any deal would come at a significant cost, but the potential reward—a proven, Premier League-ready forward—could justify the investment for Liverpool.
As the January window approaches, this potential transfer adds another layer of intrigue to an already gripping title race. Liverpool’s proactive approach highlights their determination not only to maintain their position at the top but also to strengthen strategically, ensuring that they remain competitive on all fronts. With Marmoush’s talent, versatility, and Premier League experience, the Egyptian forward could prove to be the game-changing addition the Reds are looking for.
