PRAISE: For Leeds United from Liverpool boss Arne Slot, above.placeholder image
PRAISE: For Leeds United from Liverpool boss Arne Slot, above. | Getty Images
Liverpool have reportedly agreed personal terms with priority target Antoine Semenyo
Liverpool have a lot to weigh up as they approach the January transfer window, and one glaring priority for 2026 is exploring new options at right-wing.
The Reds have long been aware of the need to eventually replace Mohamed Salah but this season has made it clear that they need to push that towards the top of their list.
Prior to Salah’s bombshell comments to the media, the Egyptian had struggled to perform consistently at his usual standard this season. The 33-year-old has nine goal-scoring contributions in 20 games so far this term, which is way off what the world knows he can produce.
Salah’s contract is due to expire in 2027 but rumours are now building around a potential departure next year. Saudi Arabian clubs remain heavily interested in the Egyptian superstar, and 2026 will realistically be Liverpool’s last chance to sell one of their prized assets for a decent fee.
Liverpool ‘agree terms’ with potential Mo Salah successor
When Salah inevitably leaves Anfield, Liverpool must ensure they have a suitable figure to replace him permanently. Antoine Semenyo has emerged as a leading target for the Reds and this week has brought a major update in their pursuit of the Bournemouth star.
Recent reports have claimed that Liverpool have ‘agreed personal terms’ with Semenyo, who has been turning a lot of heads with his impressive performances.
The Ghana international has a £65 million release clause that will become active in the new year. After spending more than £400 million over the summer, the Reds have shown they can splash serious cash where it’s needed, and signing a long-term replacement for a legend like Salah is a high priority. However, Liverpool face fierce competition from other clubs, especially Manchester City. The Premier League title contenders have also reportedly agreed personal terms with Semenyo, and Pep Guardiola is a big fan of the 25-year-old.
“He’s very good, absolutely. He’s an extraordinary player,” the City boss recently said of Semenyo, ahead of his side’s meeting with Bournemouth last month.
Why Antoine Semenyo would be an ideal signing for Liverpool
Liverpool’s attack has come under fire in the media this season, particularly during the team’s torrid run of form that featured nine defeats in 12 games in all competitions. Semenyo would bring a great deal to Liverpool, including a much-needed injection of physicality to the front three.
The Bournemouth winger is often involved in gritty challenges with the opposition and isn’t afraid of using his strength to his advantage. During his most recent appearance against Manchester United, Semenyo won six of his 12 attempted aerial duels (via Sofascore).
According to WhoScored, the winger also averages significantly higher in tackles per 90 minutes compared to Salah. Semenyo contributes an average of 1.6 tackles per 90, compared to the Egyptian’s 0.2. This not only showcasing Semenyo’s physicality and urge to recover the ball but also highlights his ability to track back and defend, which is something Salah is often criticised for not doing.
Semenyo could bring a lot to the table at Liverpool that has been missing since Sadio Mane left the club. Like Mane, Semenyo is not afraid to challenge defenders and break up the opposition back line to create chances. Both are snap reactive to mistakes and hesitation - pouncing on any opportunity to take the ball forwards and threaten the goalkeeper.
Right now, Liverpool have lost a lot of their urgency and often look unsure of themselves. Bringing in a confident winger like Semenyo will only help rediscover their essence and, hopefully, see a return of the results they have been known for in recent seasons.
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