Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has suggested that the club should target Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, who could leave Anfield when his contract expires next year. Salah has been in excellent form, with nine goals and nine assists in 16 appearances this season, making him a crucial player for Liverpool. As a result, manager Arne Slot may be looking for a suitable successor, and Sturridge believes Vinicius could be an ideal fit.
Speaking to Boylesports (via GOAL) about potential replacements for Salah, Sturridge acknowledged that Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, known for his athleticism and dribbling ability like Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo, lacks the consistent goal-scoring ability needed for a direct replacement. Sturridge pointed out that while Kvaratskhelia is talented, his inconsistency in front of goal makes him less suited to fill Salah’s shoes.
Sturridge emphasized the need for Liverpool to pursue a proven talent to take over Salah’s role, suggesting that if Vinicius Junior, one of the world’s top players, becomes unsettled at Real Madrid and decides against renewing his contract, Liverpool should move quickly to sign him. However, Sturridge acknowledged the difficulty of acquiring Vinicius, given his integral role at Real Madrid, where he has contributed 92 goals and 82 assists in 280 appearances.
If Vinicius remains unattainable, Liverpool may turn their attention to other options, including Bundesliga forward Omar Marmoush of Eintracht Frankfurt. Reports (via Sporting News) suggest that Liverpool is considering a move for Marmoush in 2025, when he will have two years left on his contract, potentially giving the club leverage in negotiations. Marmoush has impressed this season with 12 goals and nine assists in 14 appearances and has shown versatility by playing across various attacking positions, making him a promising candidate for Liverpool’s forward line.