TalkSPORT pundit Tony Cascarino recently proposed that Liverpool should look at Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, who has long been a key figure in Liverpool’s attack. This suggestion comes after Liverpool’s surprising 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest at Anfield, which occurred under the guidance of their new manager, Arne Slot. Despite Salah’s efforts to make an impact, his performance wasn’t enough to avert the unexpected loss.
This defeat, combined with the uncertainty surrounding the futures of key players such as Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk—whose contracts expire after the 2024-2025 season—has led to discussions about Liverpool’s long-term strategy. Although Salah stayed with the club through the summer transfer window, there is still concern about his potential departure, particularly given the ongoing interest from Saudi Arabian clubs.
Salah has been frequently linked with a transfer to the Saudi Pro League, where interest in him remains strong. Despite no deal materializing in the last transfer window, speculation about his future continues, raising questions about how long Liverpool can retain their Egyptian star. While there is hope within the club that Salah might extend his contract and remain a key player in the coming seasons, Liverpool is also preparing for the possibility of his departure.
Reports suggest that Liverpool plans to initiate talks with Salah in an effort to extend his stay beyond next summer. However, the appeal of a move to Saudi Arabia, along with the significant financial incentives, suggests that Salah’s time at Anfield might be coming to an end. Consequently, Liverpool is reportedly considering various potential replacements, both domestically and internationally, to ensure they remain competitive.
Amid the ongoing speculation, Cascarino has pointed to Bryan Mbeumo as a potential successor to Salah at Liverpool. In a talkSPORT interview, Cascarino praised the Brentford forward, saying, “If Mo Salah left, Mbeumo would be the one I’d target. He’s got goals, durability, and is always a nuisance on the pitch.” Mbeumo’s tenacity, work rate, and consistent goal-scoring make him a compelling option for Liverpool.
Since joining Brentford from Troyes in 2019, Mbeumo has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most dependable attackers. The 25-year-old Cameroon international has netted 53 goals and provided 42 assists in 204 appearances for Brentford, playing a crucial role in the club’s ascent in English football. His performance under pressure and goal-scoring ability have cemented his status as a key player for Brentford.
Currently valued around £35 million, Mbeumo offers a cost-effective yet impactful solution for Liverpool if they decide to pursue him. With his contract running until 2026, Mbeumo may soon face a decision on his future. Whether he extends his stay at Brentford or seeks a new challenge, his impressive performances have caught the eye of larger clubs, including Liverpool.
What makes Mbeumo particularly appealing to Liverpool is not just his scoring prowess but also his versatility. His ability to play across the front line, combined with his high work rate and resilience, aligns well with Liverpool’s demanding style of play. Additionally, Mbeumo’s durability and minimal injury record are crucial attributes for a player aiming to thrive at the top level..
Should Salah choose to leave Anfield, Mbeumo’s skill set could enable him to integrate smoothly into Liverpool’s system. His combination of speed, creativity, and finishing ability would offer Liverpool a dynamic attacking option that could partly replicate Salah’s impact. Additionally, Mbeumo’s relatively modest price makes him a potentially wise investment for the club as they aim to enhance the squad while maintaining financial discipline.
While Salah’s departure would certainly create a notable gap at Liverpool, Mbeumo’s impressive performance in the Premier League indicates he could be a strong candidate to fill that void. As Liverpool plans for the future, Mbeumo’s name might become increasingly relevant as they evaluate their options in upcoming transfer windows.
