Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been advised to pursue a transfer for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo should Mo Salah leave Anfield next summer, while John Barnes asserts that the Reds are not “foolish” in negotiating new contracts.
The Egyptian is regarded by many as Liverpool’s most crucial player, having achieved remarkable statistics since his acquisition for a mere £36.9 million from Roma in the summer of 2017. Having recorded 214 goals and 92 assists in 353 appearances for the club, securing the player with a new contract is seen as essential for their future success.
Salah caused a frenzy among Liverpool supporters with a “last year here” remark made soon before the current international break during a beautifully articulated speech on live television.
Negotiations for a new agreement are set to begin shortly with the player’s agent, Rami Abbas Issa, while speculation has increased over potential replacements Slot may consider if an exit is confirmed.
Pundit Tony Cascarino has said that the Reds would be wise to consider after Brentford sensation Mbeumo.
“I recall mentioning to you that if Mo Salah departed, Mbeumo would be my preferred target,” he stated to talkSPORT.
“He possesses numerous attributes; he has objectives, resilience, and consistently proves to be a formidable challenge during every match.”
The Bees forward, now valued at £50 million by Thomas Frank’s team, has scored three goals in four matches this season, assuming the position of their primary goalscorer after the transfer of Ivan Toney to Al-Ahli on deadline day.
What is John Barnes currently stating regarding Salah’s future?
Similar to Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk will have their contracts expire next summer, and former winger John Barnes argues that it is “unthinkable” for the Anfield leadership to lack a contingency plan.
“It would be nearly inconceivable for there to have been no discussions whatsoever between the club and the players.” I am unable to perceive it. Thus, they will own control over it. “They are not foolish,” Barnes stated to Ladbrokes, an official partner of Liverpool FC.
“I am confident they have it managed.” An announcement may occur next month indicating that one of them has secured a new four-year contract, prompting reflection on the previous concerns.
“One of them may be prepared for sale or released as a free agent, but regardless, they will have their strategies established.” This has not only emerged for them in the past week at Liverpool.
“They will have strategies established, and it is incumbent upon individuals like me to deliberate on the necessary actions, including whether to acquire or divest these players and other related matters.”
These opinions are consistent with those of former Reds custodian Adrian, who asserted over the weekend that he believes Salah would ultimately agree to a new contract.
“This is his final year under contract with Liverpool. I am aware that the team appreciates him, the fans adore him, and he has a strong affection for both the team and the city. His experience at Liverpool has been significant,” Adrian stated.
“I cannot envision Mohamed Salah competing for another team in the Premier League; thus, if he has the opportunity to extend his contract with Liverpool, the most advantageous course of action is to remain at the club and continue as one of the most seasoned players in the squad.”
Liverpool is reportedly interested in former Manchester United midfielder Angel Gomes, following his impressive performance for England during the international break.
The 24-year-old left Old Trafford in August 2020, signing a five-year contract with French club Lille.
With that arrangement set to expire next summer and the midfielder receiving his significant opportunity on the international stage from Lee Carsley last week, several Premier League clubs have taken notice of his predicament, with reports indicating that Liverpool is prominently involved.
Following the rejection by Martin Zubimendi during the summer, it is believed that CEO Michael Edwards is prepared to assist sporting director Richard Hughes in securing an alternative in 2025.
Regarding Zubimendi, the Euro 2024 champion has ultimately disclosed his choice to decline the Reds, while Sociedad has since retracted assertions that he would receive a new contract in San Sebastian.
Mbeumo demonstrates his potential as a viable substitute for Salah.
Since his acquisition by the Bees for a modest £5.8 million from Troyes in 2019, Mbeumo has consistently improved for the London club.
The Cameroon international has lately gained recognition, currently totalling 53 goals and 42 assists for the Bees in just 204 games, resulting in a goal contribution every 2.14 appearances.
He scored three goals in four matches this season He concluded the 2023/24 campaign with nine goals and six assists from 27 games, occupying the same right-wing position as Salah under Frank.
Premier League statistics for Mo Salah against Bryan Mbeumo
Consequently, envision his potential impact at a club such as Liverpool, when supported by superior teammates.
The player seems receptive to a potential transfer, stating to L’Equipe in May: “I’ve spent five seasons at Brentford, at a club that facilitated my development and advancement.”
I aspire to compete in premier tournaments and prestigious clubs. It remains appealing to observe significant teams expressing interest in me. We shall observe.
