Full Breakdown
Liverpool's Search for Mohamed Salah's Replacement
3/9/2026, 1:41:08 PM
Core Event: Potential Departures and Replacement Strategies
Liverpool Football Club is reportedly preparing for the potential departure of star winger Mohamed Salah, who is under contract until the summer of 2027 but may leave for the Saudi Pro League this summer. The club is exploring various options to replace him, with Moussa Diaby, formerly of Aston Villa and currently with Al-Ittihad, emerging as a primary target. Liverpool's owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), face competition from Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea, all of whom have also expressed interest in Diaby.
Background & Context: Salah's Current Situation
Mohamed Salah's performance has reportedly declined during the 2025/26 season, leading to speculation about his future. The Saudi Pro League is preparing a formal offer for Salah, which could prompt his exit from Anfield. In anticipation of this, Liverpool has begun scouting potential replacements, including Diaby, Michael Olise from Bayern Munich, and Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig.
Key Figures & Groups: Moussa Diaby and Jeremie Frimpong
Moussa Diaby, a French international winger, has been a standout player in the Saudi Pro League, contributing eight goals and 29 assists in 61 matches since joining Al-Ittihad for €60 million in 2024. His contract with the club runs until 2029, but reports suggest that he is eager to return to Europe, which may influence Al-Ittihad's willingness to negotiate a lower transfer fee than the €40 million they would typically demand.
In addition to Diaby, former Liverpool defender Glen Johnson has suggested that Jeremie Frimpong, who joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen for £30 million, could also serve as a replacement for Salah. Despite struggling with injuries, Frimpong has shown versatility and potential in attacking roles, which could make him a viable option should Salah depart.
Official Statements & Responses
Reports indicate that intermediaries have informed Liverpool of Diaby's potential availability, suggesting that Al-Ittihad may be open to negotiations. Meanwhile, Johnson emphasized the importance of exploring internal options like Frimpong before making significant investments in the transfer market. He stated, “I think to say to replace Mo is almost impossible, but I don't think you'd look at it that way.”
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns Over Replacement Quality
While there is optimism regarding potential replacements, some critics argue that finding a player who can match Salah's impact will be challenging. Johnson acknowledged this difficulty, noting that while Frimpong could fill a position, replicating Salah's unique contributions would be nearly impossible.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the exact nature of Salah's potential move to the Saudi Pro League, with some sources suggesting a formal offer is imminent, while others remain uncertain about the timeline. Additionally, the financial implications of a bidding war for Diaby among Premier League clubs could complicate Liverpool's efforts to secure a replacement.
What's Next: Upcoming Transfer Developments
As the summer transfer window approaches, Liverpool is expected to intensify its efforts to secure a replacement for Salah, with Diaby and Frimpong among the leading candidates. The club's strategy will likely depend on the developments surrounding Salah's future and the competitive landscape of the transfer market.
