Liverpool's Possible Replacements for Key Players

Liverpool are facing a potential exodus of three key players in the summer - Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk. With their contracts expiring, the club needs to consider possible replacements for each position.

Centre-back (to replace Virgil van Dijk)

Finding a world-class central defender to replace Van Dijk is no easy task. However, Jonathan Tah of Bayer Leverkusen is a strong candidate. He has been outstanding for Leverkusen this season and his profile closely matches that of Van Dijk. He is physically imposing, a natural leader, and an excellent distributor of the ball. In addition, he hardly ever misses a game through injury and his contract expires in the summer, meaning he will be available as a free agent. Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also reportedly interested in making a summer move, but there are still a few doubts for Liverpool. Tah hardly covered himself in glory during Leverkusen's 4-0 defeat at Anfield in November, mostly features in a back three, and is coming towards the end of his career. But he's the best fit to replace Van Dijk.

Right-back (replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold)

Scouring the European football scene for a readymade right-back to replace Alexander-Arnold is tricky. However, Conor Bradley of Liverpool is among the top U21 right-backs in the Premier League. Though his technical profile differs significantly from Alexander-Arnold, he's shown enough to suggest that he'll flourish as a regular. While you may lose something in Alexander-Arnold's composure, playmaking quality and set-piece proficiency, with Bradley you gain the more classic full-back abilities such as ferocious, high-speed ball-carrying, relentless take-ons, and a contagious attacking mindset. Bradley may not have played as much as he'd hoped to under new boss Arne Slot this season, but given the youngster's impact from the bench (and last season's displays), he will surely be a regular soon. Of course, Liverpool would then need to find a backup for Bradley as well, so one solution could be to look at one player who could cover two positions.

Forward (replacing Mohamed Salah)

Replacing a floating forward/winger hybrid who guarantees 20+ goals per season, a ton of assists, and is playing the best football of his life at 32 is a tough task. The club's most likely way out comes through team effort, but if Salah leaves, then at least one new attacker is needed in addition to the tactical measures that Slot can employ in order to grind more goals out of the group. Recruiting an out-and-out centre-forward is arguably the most logical step. Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray (on loan from Napoli) is one of the most prolific strikers in world football. Though Osimhen is unlikely to settle for a wage package significantly short of what Salah is earning now, the 26-year-old is still one of the top penalty area strikers, with pace to burn and experience that could easily see him score 20+ goals a season in the Premier League.

Conclusion

Liverpool have a problem. In six months they could lose three of their best players - Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk - for nothing when their contracts expire. The chances are that at least one of the high-profile trio will extend their deal - Salah, 32, and Van Dijk, 33, are more likely, while Alexander-Arnold, 26, seems set to move to Real Madrid - but the club should certainly think about possible replacements for all three in case the worst happens. Here's a list of new players who could be the best fit for each position next summer.