Liverpool ‘preparing shock raid’ on Premier League rivals for Mo Salah ‘replacement’

Liverpool are reportedly preparing to raid one of their Premier League rivals to secure a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah. Despite Salah’s expressed desire to win more trophies with the club next season, his future remains uncertain. The Egyptian forward is out of contract next summer, and various sources have indicated that Liverpool plans to prioritize contract talks with their iconic winger.

However, Salah continues to be a prime target for Saudi Pro League clubs, who are expected to test Liverpool’s resolve again this summer after Al Ittihad’s £150 million offer was rejected last year. Even if Salah opts to stay at Anfield, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Liverpool sign another right-sided attacker to bolster their options, given the current lack of depth without Salah.

According to French outlet L’Equipe, Liverpool has identified Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo as a summer target. However, they could face serious competition from Newcastle. Despite a season hampered by injuries, the 24-year-old still managed to score nine goals and provide six assists in 25 Premier League appearances.

Mbeumo, a left-footed winger in a similar mould to Salah, appears to be an ideal target for Fenway Sports Group’s head of football Michael Edwards. Edwards, who returned to the club following Jurgen Klopp’s departure, will have the final say in recruiting new manager Arne Slot’s transfer targets.

The Cameroon international has made his intentions clear regarding a potential summer move. “I have spent five years at Brentford, at a club that has allowed me to grow and pass a milestone, but yes, I would like to play in the biggest competitions, at the best clubs,” he recently told L’Equipe. “It is tantalising to see some big clubs interested in me. We will see.”

Mbeumo is under contract at Brentford until 2026, with the club retaining an option to extend his deal for a further year. With star forward Ivan Toney also expected to leave this summer, it could take a substantial fee to prise Mbeumo away from Thomas Frank’s side.