Former player-turned-pundit Paul Merson has proposed that Liverpool should consider pursuing Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka if they are forced to sell Mohamed Salah in the near future.
There have been consistent rumours linking Salah with a departure from Liverpool, with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad reportedly expressing interest in the 31-year-old’s services.
It has been reported that Nuno Espirito Santo’s team submitted an initial bid of approximately £150 million to secure Salah’s signature, but Liverpool have rebuffed the offer as they are determined to retain their star player.
Despite Liverpool’s reluctance to part with Salah, it’s been reported that Al-Ittihad are determined to secure his services and may submit an improved offer of approximately £200 million to convince the club to sell.
Must Read: Liverpool reject Al-Ittihad’s £150m offer for Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah
Speaking on Sky Sports, Paul Merson has proposed that if Liverpool does decide to accept the £200 million offer for Salah, they should consider signing Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka as his replacement in January for a fee of around £150 million.
He said:
“They[Liverpool] sell (Salah) for £200million, and then in January, see if they can get Saka from Arsenal for £150million”
While the Premier League transfer window has already closed, the Saudi Arabian transfer window remains open for a few more days, allowing clubs to make signings.
Consequently, Liverpool still faces the potential of losing Salah, although Klopp has firmly stated that the 31-year-old is not available for sale, and Salah himself is content at the club.
However, if circumstances change in the coming days, Liverpool could consider Saka as an excellent replacement for Salah if they manage to secure the Englishman’s signature in the January transfer window.
Also Read: Liverpool’s transfer window rated as they complete their midfield overhaul
Saka has become a crucial player for Arsenal and the club recently secured him on a long-term contract. Consequently, it is highly improbable that the Gunners would consider allowing their star player to leave.
As a result, it will be intriguing to observe whether Liverpool ultimately succeeds in retaining Salah or if they decide to follow Merson’s advice and pursue Saka should they choose to cash in on the Egyptian international.
