Despite his recent injury absence, Mohamed Salah remains Liverpool’s leading man. The Egyptian has already scored 21 times in all competitions this season, finding the net in both of his starts since returning to the fold.
Yet there will come a time when Liverpool must prepare for life without Salah. His current contract has another year to run, but by the time it expires he will be 33. While he has hardly looked like slowing up this season, time eventually catches up on all, even the very best.
Saudi Pro League clubs are likely to reignite their interest in Salah again this summer although Liverpool will likely give them short shrift, unless it receives a groundbreaking offer.
A number of potential replacements have been reported to be on Liverpool’s radar in the past, most notably Wolves’ Pedro Neto. However, his injury record is likely to be of concern with the Portugal international again sidelined at present.
Former Reds defender Mark Lawrenson has suggested Jarrod Bowen as an alternative and suggested the England international moving to Anfield is ‘very much a possibility’.
Speaking to Paddy Power, Lawrenson said: “Bowen can play in all three positions across the front line, gets you goals and work hard. You’re not going to get another Mo Salah. The other thing he gives you is that he works extremely hard defensively — he wasn’t great at it when he joined but he’s improved on it.”
Bowen is enjoying another fine season with West Ham and his performances could see him secure a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad for the European Championships this summer. He has found the net 14 times in the Premier League this term, with only four players scoring more — Erling Haaland, Ollie Watkins, Dominic Solanke and Salah.
The 27-year-old did only sign a new long-term contract last October so will not be available for cheap, with West Ham having paid $28m (£22m/€26m) to sign him from Hull in 2020.
On Salah, Lawrenson suggested the Egyptian could well depart Anfield this summer. He added: “I think he will leave. As for who replaces him, I am not sure how much money Liverpool will have. Another center-back is needed and that might be the priority.”
Liverpool.com says: Bowen remains one of the best Premier League players outside the top six and it is no surprise to see him linked with a move. As far as potential replacements for Salah go, he fits the bill more than most. The England ace is lethal in front of goal and his work rate makes him a handful for defenses. Liverpool could do much worse if it is looking to replace the Egyptian.
