Journalist: Liverpool Hold Interest in Bundesliga Forward as Potential Mo Salah Replacement | OneFootball

Liverpool Eyeing Borussia Dortmund Forward to Replace Mohamed Salah

As Liverpool prepare for a summer of major changes, Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi has emerged as a top target. According to Rudy Galetti for TEAMtalk, Liverpool have shortlisted Adeyemi as they gear up for the expected departure of Mo Salah, whose contract runs out at the end of this season. With Salah unlikely to extend his stay at Anfield, the Reds are keen on bringing in a versatile winger who can slot into both central and wide positions.

But Liverpool aren’t the only ones interested in Adeyemi’s signature. Galetti reports that Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are also eyeing the 22-year-old German international, which could create a bidding war in 2025. Despite the competition, Liverpool are optimistic about their chances, given Adeyemi’s price tag of less than €45m (£37.5m). This sum is seen as fair and negotiable by the Liverpool hierarchy.

Adeyemi’s Versatility: A Perfect Fit for Liverpool?

Adeyemi’s ability to play across the front line, either centrally or on both wings, makes him a perfect fit for Arne Slot’s attacking setup. Liverpool have been on the lookout for a replacement for Salah, and Adeyemi’s versatility could prove invaluable in maintaining the fluidity of their attack.

Photo: IMAGO

While his speed is often highlighted as his most significant asset, Adeyemi offers more than just blistering pace. His progressive carries, off-the-ball movement, and ability to receive progressive passes set him apart as a dynamic winger capable of stretching opposition defences. As Galetti notes, Adeyemi ranked in the 88th percentile among Bundesliga wingers for progressive carries and the 82nd percentile for progressive passes received.

However, his goal-scoring record still leaves room for improvement. Last season, he managed only three goals and one assist in 21 Bundesliga appearances. While this is a far cry from Salah’s 18 goals and 10 assists in the Premier League, it’s clear that Adeyemi has room to grow, especially under Slot’s guidance.

Liverpool’s Backup Options: Kubo and Williams

Liverpool are not putting all their eggs in one basket. The Reds are also monitoring other attacking talents like Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams. Kubo, a former Real Madrid player, could be available for around €60m (£50.7m) next summer. However, Real Madrid’s 50% sell-on clause complicates matters. As Galetti explains, Madrid could trigger Kubo’s release clause and profit by selling him for double the price.

Nico Williams is another name being closely watched. The Spanish international impressed during Euro 2024 and has attracted interest from top clubs, including Barcelona, Arsenal, and Chelsea. Slot reportedly sees Williams as a long-term replacement for Salah, but Liverpool will have to fend off fierce competition to secure his services.

Competition in the Market: Sane and Watkins

Liverpool’s forward planning extends beyond Adeyemi and Williams. Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane, who could be available on a free transfer next summer, is another potential target. Sane’s experience in the Premier League and his ability to operate as both a winger and forward make him an attractive option for Liverpool.

Additionally, Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins have been identified as possible striker signings. Both players are proven goal scorers, and their arrival could bolster Liverpool’s attack, especially if Roberto Firmino leaves in 2025.

What Would Adeyemi Bring to Anfield?

Liverpool’s pursuit of Adeyemi is largely driven by his potential rather than his current output. His pace, intelligent off-ball runs, and aerial ability make him a unique prospect in the modern game. Standing at 5ft 10in, Adeyemi boasts a 60.9% success rate in aerial duels, ranking him in the 98th percentile among wingers, outperforming even Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo in this area.

Despite his physical and technical attributes, Adeyemi’s goal-scoring record needs to improve if he’s to fill the void left by Salah. Yet, under Slot’s high-pressing, attacking system, the young German could develop into a world-class forward.

Liverpool’s interest in Adeyemi is a signal that the club is planning for the future, looking to secure long-term success with young, versatile talent. While there is still much to be negotiated, the prospect of seeing Adeyemi in a Liverpool shirt is exciting for fans, especially as the team navigates through a pivotal period of transition.

Statistical Analysis by Anfield Index

In the modern game, visual cues are just as important as the numbers. The image above, featuring a focused manager on the touchline, encapsulates the intensity and tactical awareness needed in football today. The manager’s posture and expression reveal a figure fully engaged in the game’s ebb and flow, undoubtedly scrutinising every detail of his team’s performance, perhaps in the hope of achieving the marginal gains that define success at the elite level.

Analysing Tactical Decisions

Looking at the manager’s stance—hands in his pockets, eyes fixed on the action—it’s easy to infer the deep tactical consideration happening behind the scenes. Managers like this are often analysing player positioning and performance data in real time, making adjustments based on in-game stats. These decisions could be the difference between a narrow win and a frustrating draw.

Karim Adeyemi and Performance Data

Karim Adeyemi’s name often pops up in discussions surrounding young talents and advanced performance metrics. His ability to impact games through sheer pace and clever positioning is reflected in performance data. According to Fbref, Adeyemi ranks highly in key metrics such as progressive carries and touches in the opponent’s penalty area, which highlight his involvement in offensive actions and his overall influence on the pitch.

Focus on Stats to Influence Results

Football is increasingly driven by numbers and statistics. Managers like the one pictured often use stats like progressive passes received or pressing intensity to shape tactical approaches. As clubs look to the future, they rely on detailed performance analysis to unearth talents like Adeyemi, whose versatility and adaptability will be crucial in the coming years.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, the potential arrival of Karim Adeyemi would be intriguing. While his current goal tally may not match the heights of Salah, his versatility and speed would undoubtedly add a new dimension to Liverpool’s attack. Adeyemi’s ability to play across various attacking positions fits well with Slot’s fluid system, where forwards are expected to interchange frequently.

Some supporters may worry about Adeyemi’s lack of consistency in front of goal, but the 22-year-old still has time to develop under a manager like Slot, known for nurturing young talents. Moreover, the fact that Liverpool are eyeing multiple players such as Kubo, Williams, and even Sane shows the club is not just banking on one option. This forward-thinking approach is exactly what Liverpool need as they enter a new era post-Salah.

The thought of losing Salah may still be difficult to digest, but fans can take comfort in the fact that Liverpool are actively planning for life beyond their Egyptian superstar. Whether Adeyemi can fill those enormous boots remains to be seen, but the prospect of him growing into a key player for the club is an exciting one.