Report: €100m forward could replace Liverpool star

Liverpool Consider €100m Mo Salah Successor as Planning Accelerates

Liverpool’s long term succession planning is moving into sharper focus as uncertainty grows around Mohamed Salah’s future. As reported by Anfield Watch, the club could be forced into action sooner than expected, with a potential January departure now firmly part of internal discussions.

As the original report states, “No one wants it to happen, but it is now a very big possibility that the Egyptian could leave Anfield for pastures new. Even as early as the January window.” That line alone captures the reluctant realism at play inside the club. Salah remains central to Liverpool’s attacking identity, yet contingency planning has become unavoidable.

Sporting director Richard Hughes is already preparing for that scenario. “Undoubtedly, Richard Hughes already has a shortlist,” the article notes, underlining that this is not reactive panic but structured preparation. Liverpool’s recruitment model demands readiness, even when dealing with a player as iconic as Salah.

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Semenyo Interest Faces Elite Competition

One of the names under consideration is Antoine Semenyo, a profile Liverpool admire but one that comes with immediate complications. “Liverpool and Manchester City are both trying to sign him and activate his £65m release clause,” according to Anfield Watch. That competition matters.

Manchester City’s continued title challenge and squad stability make them a powerful pull. The article adds that, “from a purely objective point of view they do seem like the more attractive destination.” For a player in his prime, that calculation is understandable.

Liverpool’s rebuild phase also shapes the conversation. As the report explains, “Liverpool are going through a rebuild. This means that we’re not going to see the full potential of this team until a few seasons.” That context could sway a player like Semenyo, who may prioritise immediate contention over long term development.

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Barcola Option Gains Momentum

If Semenyo proves unattainable, Liverpool’s attention could shift back to a name previously explored. Anfield Watch references L’Equipe’s summer reporting, stating that “Liverpool wanted to sign Bradley Barcola alongside Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak.”

Barcola’s contract situation at Paris Saint Germain remains unresolved, and the French club are reportedly open to offers above €100m. Timing and finances prevented progress last summer, but circumstances may now change. “If Salah jets off to Saudi Arabia for a lot of money, Liverpool will have cash to spend again,” the article explains, making Barcola a realistic, if ambitious, option.

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Tactical Fit Under Slot

Barcola’s appeal lies in his versatility and output. A right forward who is capable of contributing from either flank, highlighting his adaptability across the front line.

Crucially, his numbers from the right flank stand out. “In his career so far, Barcola has played 32 matches as a right-winger and has 14 assists and five goals in those games.” For a Liverpool side built around chance creation under Arne Slot, that balance of creativity and finishing matters.

With Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike central options in this projected setup, Barcola’s ability to supply and score fits the evolving tactical picture.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This report feels like a line in the sand moment. Salah leaving would be emotionally seismic, yet Liverpool have never allowed sentiment to derail structure. What stands out is how calm the planning appears, even with a €100m conversation attached.

Barcola feels like a Slot type signing. Young, tactically flexible, and capable of developing within a system rather than carrying it alone. After winning the Premier League title in his debut season, Slot has earned trust, and this kind of forward thinking aligns with that authority.

There is also realism here. Competing with Manchester City for established, peak age talent is always uphill. Pivoting towards a younger elite profile makes sense, especially if Salah’s exit funds the move. Fans may worry about replacing goals, but Liverpool have evolved before. This would not be about replacing Salah directly, but redefining the attack around a new core.

If this is the next chapter, it feels planned rather than forced, and that matters.