Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy: Finding Mohamed Salah’s Successor

In the latest episode of The Redmen TV, Dan Clubbe was joined by Liverpool Echo reporter Paul Gorst to discuss Liverpool’s ongoing search for an understudy to their talisman, Mohamed Salah. The discussion ranged from recent transfer rumors to the strategic planning required for a future without their star winger.

The Interest in Takefusa Kubo

One of the hot topics was the reported interest in Japanese winger Takefusa Kubo. Gorst highlighted that despite early reports from Japan suggesting a deal was imminent, “The Athletic came out yesterday and said according to their sources that’s dead,” dispelling the rumors as premature. However, Gorst did not entirely dismiss the potential interest, noting, “No one’s come out and rebuff the interest, so that interest may well exist.”

Liverpool’s need for a right-sided attacker is evident, given the imbalance behind Salah. As Gorst pointed out, “The right side is a little bit unbalanced. Mo Salah is the undisputed first choice there, and then after that, it’s a few square pegs going into round holes.”

Considering Johan Bakayoko

Another name that surfaced in the conversation was Johan Bakayoko of PSV Eindhoven. This young talent has been linked with several clubs, including Liverpool. Gorst reflected on Bakayoko’s potential, saying, “Left-footed right winger, you know, got all the traits you’d expect of that profile of player.” He emphasized the importance of future planning, noting, “Liverpool definitely need to start future planning for what happens next.”

Dan Clubbe added that Liverpool must consider life after Salah sooner rather than later. He stated, “We do need to start thinking about life after Mo Salah potentially and what happens when that day does come.”

Financial Considerations

A significant theme in their discussion was the financial aspect of these potential transfers. Kubo’s rumored €60 million release clause raised eyebrows. Gorst remarked, “That’s quite a lot for Liverpool; that would make him sort of Dominic Szoboszlai territory, you know, fourth or fifth most expensive player of all time at Liverpool.”

This substantial investment would be unusual for Liverpool, who generally avoid carrying expensive players not guaranteed to start. Gorst acknowledged the challenge, stating, “I just question whether Liverpool would be willing to pay that release clause for someone who, at least for the next 12 months, is not going to be first choice.”

Importance of Succession Planning

The podcast delved into the broader strategy behind Liverpool’s interest in players like Kubo and Bakayoko. Succession planning is crucial, given Salah’s age and the inevitability of his eventual decline. Gorst highlighted this by saying, “Liverpool will have a list there, and you wouldn’t be shocked if Bakayoko was on there given the season he’s just had, the age, and the general profile.”

The need for a high-quality deputy is evident, not just for long-term planning but for immediate tactical flexibility. Clubbe emphasised, “We do need that backup just to give him a rest as well in certain games. We speak a lot about the amount of football that there is.”

Liverpool’s quest for a Mohamed Salah understudy is a complex puzzle, balancing immediate needs with long-term strategic goals. The discussions between Dan Clubbe and Paul Gorst on The Redmen TV shed light on the intricate considerations involved. From evaluating financial viability to identifying the right profile of players, Liverpool’s transfer strategy continues to evolve, ensuring they remain competitive at the highest level.