Liverpool’s Potential Player Exodus: Who Could Fill the Void?
As the January transfer window looms, Liverpool finds itself in a precarious position. The club is staring down the barrel of potentially losing three of its most influential players in just six months. Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk could all walk away for free when their contracts expire. This scenario is enough to send shivers down the spine of any Liverpool fan.
While there’s a glimmer of hope that at least one of these stars might extend their stay at Anfield, the odds are not entirely in Liverpool’s favor. Salah, at 32, and Van Dijk, at 33, are more likely to renew their contracts. However, the whispers of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s potential move to Real Madrid are growing louder, and it seems increasingly likely that the 26-year-old might be packing his bags for Spain.
With this uncertainty hanging over the club, Liverpool’s management must start considering potential replacements for these key players. Let’s dive into the options available for each position, starting with the center-back role.
Centre-back (to replace Virgil van Dijk)
Replacing a player of Virgil van Dijk’s caliber is no small feat. The Dutchman is arguably the best center-back in the world, known for his leadership, speed, aerial prowess, and exceptional game-reading skills. Finding someone who ticks all these boxes is a daunting task.
BEST FIT: Jonathan Tah, 28, Bayer Leverkusen
Jonathan Tah has been a standout performer for Bayer Leverkusen, and his profile closely matches that of Van Dijk. He’s physically imposing, a natural leader, and an excellent ball distributor, averaging 4.6 progressive passes per 90 minutes. His game-reading skills are top-notch, with only 0.5 tackles per 90 minutes, and he rarely misses a game due to injury. With his contract expiring in the summer, Tah will be available as a free agent.
However, there are some concerns. Tah’s performance during Leverkusen’s 4-0 defeat at Anfield in November left much to be desired. Additionally, he primarily plays in a back three and is nearing the end of his career. Despite these doubts, Tah remains the best fit to replace Van Dijk.
OTHER OPTIONS
- Marc Guéhi, 25, Crystal Palace: The England international has been linked with a £70m return to Chelsea, but Liverpool could also be interested. Guéhi is versatile, having played as a left center-back and even as a defensive midfielder. However, his aerial game and progressive passing might be areas of concern.
- Castello Lukeba, 22, RB Leipzig: Known for his speed and agility, Lukeba is a fine passer and could naturally fill Van Dijk’s spot. He’s still years away from his prime, making him an intriguing option.
- Ousmane Diomande, 21, Sporting CP: Diomande is strong in the air and confident on the ball, but his adventurous style and decision-making need refinement.
- Micky van de Ven, 23, Tottenham: Known for his speed and attacking contributions, Van de Ven is under contract for another 4 ½ years, making a move unlikely.
- Alessandro Bastoni, 25, Inter Milan: A dominant left-footed defender, Bastoni would be costly at around €100m.
Right-back (replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold)
Finding a right-back to fill Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shoes is no easy task. However, Liverpool might already have the ideal candidate within their ranks.
BEST FIT: Conor Bradley, 21, Liverpool
Conor Bradley is among the top U21 right-backs in the Premier League. While his technical profile differs from Alexander-Arnold, Bradley brings classic full-back abilities like high-speed ball-carrying and relentless take-ons. Although he hasn’t played as much as he’d like under new boss Arne Slot, his impact from the bench suggests he’ll soon be a regular starter.
Promoting Bradley would necessitate finding a backup, and one option could be a player who can cover multiple positions.
OTHER OPTIONS
- Jules Koundé, 26, Barcelona: Koundé could replace both Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold. While signing him might deviate from Liverpool’s usual approach, Barcelona’s financial woes could present an opportunity.
- Amar Dedic, 22, RB Salzburg: Dedic could serve as a backup for Bradley. His aggressive style and ability to play on the left make him a versatile option.
Forward (replacing Mohamed Salah)
Replacing Mohamed Salah is perhaps the most challenging task of all. Salah is a prolific forward who guarantees 20-plus goals per season and is currently playing some of the best football of his career.
While like-for-like replacements such as Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer, or Vinicius Jr. are untouchable, Liverpool might need to rely on a team effort to fill the void. Recruiting an out-and-out center-forward could be the most logical step.
BEST FIT: Victor Osimhen, 26, Galatasaray (on loan from Napoli)
Victor Osimhen remains one of the most prolific strikers in world football. Despite his loan move to Galatasaray, he continues to impress with 10 goals in 13 league appearances. Osimhen reportedly has a €75m release clause, making him an attractive option for Liverpool.
OTHER OPTIONS
- Benjamin Sesko, 21, RB Leipzig: Sesko is a young talent with tremendous shooting ability. However, his current goal average might not justify the €70m price tag.
- Alexander Isak, 25, Newcastle United: Isak is a proven Premier League striker, but prising him away from Newcastle would be costly.
- Viktor Gyökeres, 26, Sporting CP: Gyökeres has an impressive goal record, but Liverpool might be hesitant to make another big-money move after signing Darwin Núñez.
- Jonathan David, 25, Lille: David is a first-class finisher, but Liverpool’s current attacking lineup might not have room for him.
Originally Written by: Tor-Kristian Karlsen
