Liverpool begin negotiations for Vinicius Junior as Salah replacement

Liverpool have reportedly opened talks to sign Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior following Mohamed Salah's departure. Spanish journalist Ramón Álvarez de Mon claims the Reds are prioritising the 24-year-old Brazilian as a marquee addition to their attack.

The potential move comes after Liverpool's all-time Premier League goalscorer left the club this summer. Vinicius, who registered 32 goal contributions last season, is valued at around £120m by Real Madrid.

Context: Why Liverpool need a statement signing

Liverpool finished third in the Premier League last season, 12 points behind champions Manchester City. The loss of Salah, who scored 25 league goals and provided 14 assists in 2024-25, leaves a gaping hole in the final third. The club has already signed Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister to reinforce midfield, but no direct replacement for Salah has been brought in.

Vinicius Jr has been one of Europe's most productive wingers. Last season, he scored 18 goals and assisted 14 in all competitions for Real Madrid. His dribbling stats rank among the top five in La Liga, averaging 2.8 successful dribbles per game. At 24, he fits Liverpool's typical recruitment profile of players approaching their peak years.

Impact analysis: Tactical fit and transfer implications

Vinicius operates primarily from the left wing but has also played as a central striker. His arrival would likely see Darwin Núñez continue as the central striker, with Luis Díaz moving to the bench or competing for the right flank. Vinicius's pace and directness suit Jürgen Klopp's high-transition style.

The £120m fee would make him Liverpool's most expensive signing, surpassing the £85m paid for Núñez. This signals the club's willingness to spend big after a summer of midfield investment. Real Madrid are reluctant to sell but may be forced to cash in given their own financial constraints and Vinicius's contract situation, which runs until 2027.

  • Liverpool urgently need to reinvest £100m+ from Coutinho and Salah sales
  • Vinicius would add a different dimension — more direct running than Salah's inside-cutting style
  • Real Madrid previously bought Vinicius for €45m in 2018; selling at £120m represents significant profit

What happens next

Talks are at an early stage. Liverpool must agree personal terms with Vinicius, who is currently with Real Madrid on their pre-season tour. Real Madrid are prepared to listen to offers but want the full £120m valuation met. The transfer window closes on 1st September, giving both sides six weeks to negotiate. If the deal falls through, Liverpool may turn to alternatives such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia or Rafael Leão.

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