Is this the new African player at Liverpool — a replacement for Salah?

At Liverpool FC, the conversation surrounding Mohamed Salah is becoming increasingly intense.

The Egyptian star, long the face of the Reds’ attack, is enduring his worst goal drought since arriving at Anfield — and within the club’s hierarchy, thoughts are quietly turning toward life after Salah.

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According to “i Paper,” Liverpool’s leadership has identified Antoine Semenyo of AFC Bournemouth as the top target to eventually take over the right flank. The report adds that a January transfer is entirely possible, as Semenyo’s contract reportedly includes a release clause.

Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Salah has become a club legend with 248 goals in 413 appearances, ranking among the most prolific forwards in the Reds’ history. Yet, his current stretch of seven league matches without a goal marks a new low point in his Anfield career.

Manager Arne Slot continues to back his talisman, keeping faith in both player and system. Still, there’s growing recognition behind the scenes that Liverpool must prepare a long-term successor sooner rather than later.

Meanwhile, Semenyo is enjoying a standout season — six goals in eight games and a reputation for explosive pace and versatility. Both Tottenham and Manchester United had shown interest during the summer, but the Ghanaian extended his stay with Bournemouth until 2028. That new deal, however, is said to include a buyout clause, reportedly below €115 million. As seen with Wirtz and Isak, Liverpool have shown they are ready to invest big when it comes to securing elite young talent.

There’s also a timing advantage in Liverpool’s favor: since Ghana failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations, Semenyo would remain available in January — unlike Salah, who will be on duty with Egypt at the tournament in Morocco.