Losing a legend is never easy, but when that legend is Mohamed Salah—a man who has shattered records, dragged Liverpool to glory, and become the face of Anfield’s modern era—it hits differently.
Now, with Dejan Lovren dropping the bombshell that Salah is “closer to leaving” Liverpool than staying, the Reds face a daunting question: Who on earth can fill those boots?
More Than Just Goals
Salah isn’t just about goals—though over 200 of those certainly help. He’s about aura, unpredictability, and the ability to flip a game on its head in a heartbeat. Replacing him isn’t as simple as finding the next right-winger with quick feet. It’s about finding someone who can carry the weight of expectation at Anfield, thrive under pressure, and write their own chapter in Liverpool’s rich history. He may be 32, but being the top scorer and assister in the hardest league in the world tells you exactly how little his age seems to matter.
Johan Bakayoko – The Rising Star
At 21, Johan Bakayoko is still raw, but there’s a fearlessness in his game that’s hard to ignore. PSV Eindhoven fans know all about it—14 goals and 14 assists last season paint the picture of a winger who’s both direct and decisive. Unlike Salah, who thrives cutting inside from the right, Bakayoko is just as comfortable hugging the touchline and stretching defenses as he is drifting inside to cause chaos. His pace is blistering, his dribbling sharp, and while he’s not yet the finished product, Liverpool’s history of polishing talents—like Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo—suggests he’d fit right into the Anfield ecosystem.
Leroy Sané – The Experienced Option
If Liverpool craves someone with a more polished résumé, look no further than Leroy Sané. Remember his days at Manchester City? Defenders still have nightmares. Now at Bayern Munich, he has evolved into a more complete player. The fact that he’s in the final year of his contract makes this even juicier. Sané brings pace, flair, and that X-factor Liverpool would desperately miss without Salah. Plus, he knows the Premier League inside out. However, at 29, Liverpool might want someone younger.
Jarrod Bowen – The Premier League Proven Choice
If Liverpool wants someone who’s practically been called the “claret and blue Salah,” Jarrod Bowen is right there waiting. West Ham’s talisman has been tearing it up, with 16 goals and 6 assists last season. He’s direct, tireless, and has that uncanny knack for popping up in the right place at the right time—very Salah-esque, isn’t it? Klopp even admitted Bowen was one of his favorite players outside Liverpool. While Klopp is gone, the admiration within the Liverpool hierarchy likely hasn’t faded. But Bowen’s tied down until 2030, and it’d take a hefty sum—think north of £100 million—to pry him away. If so, Liverpool may be more open to grabbing Mohammed Kudus instead.
Bryan Mbeumo – The Underrated Gem
Speaking of versatility, Bryan Mbeumo deserves a mention. Brentford’s gem has been quietly putting up numbers that’d make any top-six club take notice. Eight goals in his first 11 Premier League games this season? That’s not a fluke. He isn’t just a scorer; he’s a creator, a link-up maestro, and someone who thrives in tight spaces—ideal for Liverpool’s quick, incisive style. Plus, the Reds and Brentford have done business before, making this a deal that feels more realistic than most. And at 25, his best days are well and truly ahead of him.
Raphinha – The Brazilian Magician
Then there’s Raphinha, the Brazilian magician who lit up Elland Road before jetting off to Barcelona. His time in La Liga has had its ups and downs, but when he’s on song, he’s unplayable. Left-footed, loves cutting inside, thrives in high-intensity systems—sound familiar? He’s like Salah’s footballing cousin. Convincing Barcelona to sell might be tricky, but with their ongoing financial gymnastics, a sizable offer could do the trick. The beauty of Raphinha? You don’t need to overhaul Liverpool’s tactics. Plug him in, let him dance down the right, and watch the magic unfold.
Conclusion: Evolution Over Replacement
Replacing Salah isn’t about finding a clone. It’s about evolving. None of them will be exactly like the Egyptian—because, let’s face it, there’s only one Mo Salah. But with the right choice, Liverpool won’t just survive his departure; they’ll thrive.
Who do you think would work best for Arne Slot and his team? Let us know in the comments!
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