Liverpool have already begun their plans to replace Mohamed Salah this summer following his announcement that he will leave at the end of the season.
Arne Slot's side have struggled massively in this campaign, with the Egyptian's troubles on the pitch summing up what a difficult season it has been for the defending Premier League champions. Last season, Salah scored an astounding 34 goals and registered 23 assists in 54 appearances, as they claimed the title. But this season, the iconic forward has managed just ten goals and nine assists in 35 games, with a string of awful performances mixed in.
Despite his drop in form and output, the club will have a huge task at hand when it comes to replacing him, but they may have just been handed the perfect solution to do just that.
Liverpool Can Sign Marcos Leonardo
Marcos Leonardo
With Salah being strongly targeted for a move to Saudi Arabia this summer, Liverpool will be in talks about letting him move on, although the expectation is that he will leave on a free.
But with the club effectively ripping up his contract so he can secure a move to the Middle East, there is a chance for them to use that in negotiations as they eye up a move to sign 'superstar' striker Marcos Leonardo.
The young Brazilian has made a name for himself in Saudi after struggling in his previous trip to Europe with Benfica, and is now keen to return to the continent once again to prove himself as a top striker.
Liverpool see him as a great option because he can play as a traditional, mobile number nine, or drop deep as a false nine to link with the midfield and other forwards in the team. That versatility is the way the club want to replace Salah, with first-choice target Michael Olise seemingly an impossible deal to do.
Leonardo and Salah Swap Deal on the Cards?
Mohamed Salah in the Champions League
Mohamed Salah in the Champions League
While Saudi aren't in a position where they need to sell, Leonardo's wishes will be a factor in the summer, and Al-Hilal have reportedly slapped a £50m asking price on his head.
That opens the door for Liverpool to propose a swap deal between Salah and Leonardo, with both moving in the opposite direction for nothing, considering what the Reds are giving up to let Salah move on now rather than in 2027.
Is it likely? Probably not. Is it possible? Everything is in football. With the quality that Leonardo has, the profile he possesses, and the need Liverpool have in their squad, this could be the perfect solution for all parties.
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