Jurgen Klopp wanted to replace Mohamed Salah with a Premier League flop that would've been Liverpool's worst transfer.
Salah's existing Liverpool contract expires at the end of the season.
He has been subject to intense transfer speculation as his future remains clouded by uncertainty.
But it's not the first time Salah has had to negotiate with Liverpool for fresh terms.
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According to The Times' Paul Joyce, there were times during previous round of negotiations with Salah and Ramy Abbas Isas, the player's agent, when a resolution also seemed unlikely.
Amid talks between Liverpool and the Egyptian winger's representatives, then-boss Klopp discussed the possibility of signing Antony as a replacement.
Of course, Antony would instead join Manchester United for £82 million and has since failed to make a huge impression considering his hefty price tag.
He has contributed a measly 12 goals and five assists in 87 appearances across all competitions since his move to Man United from Ajax in the summer of 2022.
It is understood that it was Mike Gordon, Fenway Sports Group's president, who ultimately decided renewing Salah's deal was the 'sensible use of resources'.
And it has proved to be a wise choice considering his blistering form this season.
The 32-year-old has bagged an impressive 10 goals in 17 games in all competitions this term as he's course to enjoy another ultra-prolific campaign, having netted 25 goals last season.
Salah has been instrumental for Liverpool, who currently sit at the top of the Premier League table and the Champions League standings.
The Reds are hoping their star player prolongs his stay at Anfield, with negotiations taking place behind the scenes.
As for Antony, he's made just five appearances this season, having been blighted with injuries.
His Man United spell thus far has been very underwhelming.
Topics: Liverpool, Mohamed Salah, Jurgen Klopp, Antony, Football
Nasir Jabbar