Liverpool 'preparing shock raid' on Premier League rivals for Mo Salah ‘replacement’

Liverpool are reportedly ready to raid one of their Premier League rivals to sign a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah.

Salah’s future remains unclear despite the Egyptian winger stating his desire to win more trophies at the club next season.

The forward is out of contract next summer and various outlets have reported Liverpool are planning contract talks with their iconic winger as a matter of priority.

However, the 31-year-old remains a priority target for Saudi Pro League clubs who are set to test Liverpool’s resolve again this summer after Al Ittihad saw an offer worth £150m rejected last year.

Even if Salah decides to stay at Anfield, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see another right-sided attacker join the club this summer with Liverpool short of options without the Egypt international in the side.

According to French outlet L’Equipe, Arne Slot’s side have identified Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo as a summer target but could face serious competition from Newcastle.

The 24-year-old’s season was hampered by injuries but he still managed to end the campaign with nine goals and six assists in 25 Premier League appearances.

A left-footed winger in a similar mould to Salah, Mbeumo is the ideal target for Fenway Sports Group’s head of football Michael Edwards who returned to the club following Jurgen Klopp’s departure and will have the final say in recruiting Slot’s transfer targets.

Mbeumo is wanted by Liverpool (Getty)

The Cameroon international has wasted no time in clearing up his summer transfer plans admitting it might be the right time to move on from Brentford.

“I have spent five years at Brentford, at a club that has allowed me to grow and pass a milestone but yes, I would like to play in the biggest competitions, at the best clubs,” he recently told L’Equipe.

“It is tantalising to see some big clubs interested in me. We will see.”

Mbeumo is under contract at Brentford until 2026 but the Bees retain the option to extend his deal for a further year.

With star forward Ivan Toney also expected to leave this summer, it could take a huge fee to prise him away from Thomas Frank’s side.

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