Liverpool Football Club has reportedly begun the process of planning for a future without their Egyptian superstar, Mohamed Salah, with tensions at Anfield reaching a boiling point. The Reds have identified Paris Saint-Germain's young winger, Bradley Barcola, as their primary target to succeed the legendary forward.
Salah's Public Outburst Sparks Crisis
The situation escalated dramatically after Mohamed Salah was left on the bench for a third consecutive Premier League match. Following a thrilling 3-3 draw against Leeds United on Saturday, the 33-year-old did not mince words. He told reporters he felt he had been "thrown under the bus," a statement that sent shockwaves through the club, as reported by Sky Sports.
This public criticism of the club and manager Arne Slot marks a stunning downturn in relations. Just months ago, Salah signed a lucrative two-year contract extension after a phenomenal season where he scored 29 goals and provided 18 assists to help Liverpool win the title. This campaign, however, tells a different story, with only four goals in 13 league appearances and diminishing playing time.
Barcola Emerges as Top Replacement Target
As the fallout from Salah's interview spread, news broke of Liverpool's concrete interest in Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola. According to GOAL, the 23-year-old Frenchman has shot to the top of the Reds' recruitment shortlist.
Barcola, who has scored five goals in 15 Ligue 1 games this season, is seen as an ideal long-term project. His pace, versatility, and potential fit Liverpool's strategic model perfectly. Despite his growth under manager Luis Enrique, his future at PSG is uncertain, with stalled contract talks and fierce competition for places from stars like Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Liverpool's hierarchy sees an opportunity and is preparing to make a move, especially if Salah's departure is accelerated. The Egyptian's hint that he hopes to "say farewell" to fans in a potential final match against Brighton next weekend has intensified speculation of a January exit.
What This Means for Liverpool's Attack
The club is now forced to confront a transition they hoped to manage more gradually. While ideally preferring to keep Salah until the season's end, Liverpool are being pragmatic about the growing pressure. A January move for Barcola would represent one of the most significant squad changes since Sadio Mané's departure.
Bradley Barcola is not the only name under consideration, but his profile, age, and current situation have made him the preferred option. His potential signing would signal a new era for Liverpool's famed attacking line, aiming to blend immediate impact with future promise.
