Former footballer turned pundit Paul Merson has suggested that Liverpool should consider making a move to acquire Arsenal’s standout talent, Bukayo Saka, in the event they are compelled to part ways with Mohamed Salah in the coming weeks.

Salah, the Egyptian forward, has been the subject of persistent transfer speculation away from Liverpool, with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad reportedly expressing strong interest in securing the services of the 31-year-old.

Reports indicate that Nuno Espirito Santo’s side has already submitted an initial offer of approximately £150 million to acquire Salah. However, Liverpool has firmly rejected the proposal, demonstrating their determination to retain their star player.

Recent reports suggest that despite Liverpool’s unwavering stance, Al-Ittihad remains persistent in their pursuit of Salah and is prepared to make an improved offer of around £200 million to persuade Jurgen Klopp’s team to consider a transfer.

In a commentary on Sky Sports, Merson has proposed that if Liverpool were to accept the £200 million offer and sell Salah, they should target Bukayo Saka from Arsenal as a replacement in January for a fee of approximately £150 million.

Merson stated:

“They [Liverpool] sell Salah for £200 million, and then in January, see if they can get Saka from Arsenal for £150 million.”

Although the Premier League transfer window has already closed, the Saudi Arabian transfer window remains open for a few more days, allowing clubs to make signings during this period. Consequently, Liverpool faces the risk of losing Salah, but Klopp has consistently maintained that the 31-year-old is not available for sale and is content at the club.

However, if circumstances change in the coming days, Saka could emerge as an attractive replacement for Salah should Liverpool secure the Englishman’s signature in January. Nevertheless, Saka has evolved into a pivotal figure for Arsenal, and the North London club is highly unlikely to entertain the departure of their star player, especially after recently securing him to a long-term contract.

As a result, Liverpool faces a challenging decision regarding Salah’s future, and whether they decide to pursue Saka as an alternative option will be an intriguing development to watch.