Liverpool target Antoine Semenyo as a replacement for Salah in the winter transfer window.
Mohamed Salah's declining form (3 goals in 11 games) has prompted Liverpool to accelerate their pursuit of Antoine Semenyo, who has scored 6 goals in 8 Premier League matches in 2025-26; the hurdle is a £75 million price tag.
Mohamed Salah's missed opportunity against Manchester United in the second half against Senne Lammens served as a psychological turning point at Anfield. From that lackluster start, with only 3 goals in 11 games across all competitions, Liverpool were forced to act: Antoine Semenyo emerged as their number one target for the winter transfer window.
Turning points and junctions
Salah, 33, extended his contract until June 2027 earlier this year, but a recent string of underwhelming performances has prompted Liverpool's leadership to accelerate their succession plans. In the match against Manchester United last weekend, the Egyptian star continued his poor form, missing a golden opportunity in the second half. With a need for new attacking options, Liverpool have clearly shifted their focus to Semenyo.
The Semenyo deal: price, contract, and competition
Semenyo is a key player for Bournemouth and has scored 6 goals in 8 Premier League games in the 2025-26 season. Last summer, Manchester United and Tottenham approached him but were unable to meet Vitality Stadium's £75 million asking price. Last July, the Ghanaian winger signed a five-year extension with an undisclosed release clause—a detail that could complicate mid-season negotiations.
In terms of relationships, Liverpool have maintained a connection with Bournemouth following the Milos Kerkez deal, and sporting director Richard Hughes previously worked at the South Coast club. However, to convince Bournemouth to release a key player in January, Liverpool will likely have to make a very attractive financial offer.
Tactical analysis: Why are Liverpool eyeing Semenyo?
The challenge of succeeding Salah isn't just about the number of goals, but also his ability to carry the right wing and make a difference with his high speed. Semenyo—a winger—offers a fresh option for the attacking structure, giving Liverpool more direct attacks from the flanks and depth in attack. In the long term, this is preparation to redistribute the goalscoring and chances-creating roles that have relied heavily on Salah for many seasons.
The numbers speak for themselves.
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Salah 2025-26 (all competitions) | 3 goals in 11 matches |
| Match against MU (second half) | Missed a one-on-one opportunity with goalkeeper Senne Lammens. |
| Semenyo in the Premier League 2025-26 | 6 goals/8 matches |
| Bournemouth's asking price | 75 million pounds |
| Salah's contract | By June 2027 |
| Semenyo Contract | Extended for 5 years in July; release clause undisclosed. |
| Interest during the summer | MU, Tottenham (not meeting the price) |
| Contact Channel | Milos Kerkez has just joined from Bournemouth; Richard Hughes previously worked there. |
Prospects and impacts
If completed, the Semenyo deal would mark a significant step in Liverpool's mid-season attacking restructuring, laying the groundwork for a transition in the right-back role. However, with Bournemouth's £75 million price tag and long-term contract, this will be a challenge requiring both financial determination and the right timing from The Kop.
