Former Liverpool star names ideal Salah replacement

Liverpool squad balance under Slot scrutiny

Liverpool’s attacking options remain extensive, yet Owen’s analysis points to a specific imbalance. Despite significant investment, the squad lacks a natural right sided attacker in Salah’s mould. Players such as Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz provide creativity and goal threat, but operate differently, often drifting centrally or preferring alternative zones.

Owen acknowledged this gap directly: “They are going to have to do only a little bit of surgery on the team, they have spent a fortune last year. I know they recouped a lot of money last year, but they spent a lot of it, and I doubt they have any left to spend it again. But they are going to have to replace Salah, that’s the first port of call.”

He continued: “There’s no one in the team currently who is like Salah, a right sided attacker. There are options in different positions with Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, but they have injuries they’re working through. You have Rio Ngumoha who’s trying to break through into the team, then there’s Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz. There are plenty of options going forward but none on the right side.”

This assessment reflects a broader recruitment question. Liverpool’s recent spending has been substantial, yet targeted additions remain necessary to maintain competitive standards domestically and in Europe.

Financial reality shapes Bowen transfer prospects

Any move for Bowen would depend heavily on West Ham’s circumstances. Relegation could alter the financial landscape and make negotiations more feasible. Without that scenario, Liverpool may need to explore alternative strategies or negotiate creatively.

Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant offered a note of caution regarding resources: “I don’t think we’re going to have that massive budget. We’ve got two good defenders coming back, which is a blessing. We’ll have Conor Bradley coming back as well, which is great news as well for next season. We’ve got to give them money because the same Slot system is not going to work. So with the group that we’ve got, I personally believe that a new style, the ‘old Liverpool way’, would get a better tune out of these players and better performances and better results.”

For Liverpool, the equation is clear. Replacing Salah is both a footballing and financial challenge. Owen’s backing of Bowen adds a compelling dimension to the debate, one grounded in experience and observation. Whether that recommendation translates into action will define a critical phase in Liverpool’s evolution under Slot.