Liverpool Lead Race for Bundesliga Forward, Says Ornstein

Liverpool have intensified their pursuit of a forward from the Bundesliga, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic. The move is understood to be part of the club’s succession planning for Mohamed Salah, whose long-term future at Anfield remains uncertain.

Succession Planning for Salah Gathers Pace

Mohamed Salah, now 32, has been Liverpool’s talisman since his arrival in 2017. With his contract expiring in 2025 and no extension announced, sporting director Richard Hughes is preparing for life without the Egyptian. The club’s interest in a Bundesliga attacker signals a proactive approach to avoid a repeat of the post-Suárez void in 2014.

Ornstein’s report confirms Liverpool are “pushing” to secure the forward, though no name or fee is disclosed. The Reds have a strong track record in the German market, having signed Sadio Mané, Naby Keïta, and most recently Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig. The target is believed to be a versatile forward capable of playing across the front three, fitting Jürgen Klopp’s successor Arne Slot’s system.

Tactical Fit and Transfer Context

Slot’s Liverpool have evolved into a more possession-based side this season, averaging 62% possession in the Premier League. The new forward would need to offer direct running and high pressing, traits that have defined Liverpool’s recruitment under the current regime. The club’s data-driven approach often prioritises players with high expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes, particularly those under 25.

The Bundesliga has become a fertile hunting ground for Premier League clubs. Since 2020, more than 30 players have moved from Germany to England, with an average transfer fee of £25m. Liverpool’s willingness to invest in a forward for around £60m would align with market rates for established but improvable talent.

Impact on Liverpool’s Season and FPL Considerations

Liverpool currently sit second in the Premier League, three points behind Arsenal with a game in hand. Their goal difference of +38 is the best in the division, but much of their attacking output still flows through Salah, who has 19 goals and 9 assists this campaign. Securing a successor early would provide continuity and allow the new arrival to bed in during the summer window.

  • FPL managers should note that if Salah departs, a £10m+ replacement would become essential. The current FPL ownership of Liverpool attackers outside Salah is low: Darwin Núñez (15%), Diogo Jota (8%).
  • The new signing could be priced around £8-9m based on previous Bundesliga arrivals like Christopher Nkunku (£7.5m) or Karim Adeyemi (£6.5m in 2022).
  • Upcoming fixtures for Liverpool include Manchester City (away) and Everton (home), which could see rotation if the title race tightens.

What’s Next for Liverpool’s Transfer Window

With the summer window approaching, Liverpool are expected to formalise their interest with a bid. The player’s club will likely demand a fee in excess of €70m, but Liverpool’s strong financial position—bolstered by Champions League qualification—enables such expenditure. If the deal proceeds, it would represent the largest outlay on a forward since Darwin Núñez’s £85m move in 2022. Ornstein’s report confirms discussions are advanced, suggesting an announcement could come before the pre-season tour of the United States.

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