Report: Reds Plan €60m Move For La Liga Star as Salah’s Anfield Future Hangs in Balance | OneFootball

Liverpool Target Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo as Salah’s Potential Successor

Liverpool’s search for Mohamed Salah’s long-term replacement has taken a significant turn, with Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo emerging as a primary target. According to El Nacional, the Reds are reportedly ready to activate the 23-year-old winger’s €60m release clause, setting up a potentially massive transfer that could reshape their attacking line.

Kubo’s Inconsistent but Impressive Form

Kubo’s performances this season have drawn mixed reviews, oscillating between spells of brilliance and inconsistency. However, his electric display against Barcelona has thrust him back into the spotlight. El Nacional reveals that Liverpool are “convinced” of his potential and view him as the “favourite to replace Salah.” While his inconsistency raises questions, his age and dynamic style make him a long-term prospect for the Reds.

Photo: IMAGO

Currently thriving under Arne Slot’s management, Liverpool lead the Premier League table by eight points. Despite Salah’s stellar performances, including a brace in their recent comeback win against Southampton, the Egyptian’s future remains uncertain. With his contract set to expire this summer, the likelihood of Salah leaving on a free transfer looms large.

Slot’s Vision for the Future

Liverpool’s reported interest in Kubo reflects Arne Slot’s forward-thinking approach. Federico Chiesa, signed earlier this season, hasn’t fully convinced Slot, pushing Kubo further up the wishlist. The Japanese international is viewed as a strategic acquisition, blending youth with potential for growth—a clear fit for Liverpool’s evolving tactical model.

Picture:IMAGO

In addition to Kubo, Liverpool are also monitoring Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane and Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi as possible replacements for Salah. Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has emerged as another alternative, with reports suggesting he could be available for around £50m next summer.

Balancing Priorities in January

While Kubo is firmly on Liverpool’s radar, January’s transfer focus might lean elsewhere. Strengthening the midfield and defence appears to be the priority, with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi and Fulham’s Joachim Andersen also linked. Zubimendi, whose €60m release clause Liverpool matched this past summer, is expected to be pursued again in January, though Arsenal remain strong competitors for his signature.

The defensive department also needs reinforcements. Joachim Andersen, a standout performer for Fulham, is reportedly a target, but convincing the London club to part ways with the Danish centre-back could be challenging.

Kubo’s Impact Potential

Liverpool’s interest in Kubo is not without merit. At his best, the 23-year-old offers explosive pace, creativity, and versatility—qualities essential to filling Salah’s boots. While €60m is a steep price, it’s a calculated risk for a player who could anchor the right flank for years to come.

If Liverpool decide to wait until the summer for Kubo, it would allow the Japanese winger to further develop under Sociedad’s system. However, delaying the move could open the door for rival clubs to swoop in, potentially complicating Liverpool’s plans.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans are likely to have mixed emotions about this potential move. On one hand, Kubo represents an exciting prospect, offering a youthful and dynamic option to succeed Salah. At just 23, his peak years lie ahead, and his performances against top-tier teams like Barcelona suggest he can shine on the biggest stages. Fans will relish the thought of adding such flair to Arne Slot’s already high-flying team.

However, there’s scepticism too. Kubo’s inconsistency this season raises questions about his readiness for a club of Liverpool’s stature. Can he truly replace the influence of Salah, who has been the team’s talisman for years? Moreover, with Liverpool needing reinforcements in midfield and defence, is splashing €60m on an attacker in January the wisest move?

Many supporters might also feel uneasy about letting Salah leave without securing an immediate replacement. While Kubo offers long-term promise, Liverpool need to balance their current dominance with future planning. Waiting until the summer could be a calculated gamble, but it carries risks if other clubs enter the fray for Kubo.

Ultimately, this report signals Liverpool’s ambition to plan for life after Salah. While the thought of losing the Egyptian King might sting, Kubo offers hope for the next chapter of Liverpool’s attacking evolution.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index

Takefusa Kubo’s Performance Data: What Do the Stats Say?

Takefusa Kubo’s recent performance data offers a fascinating glimpse into his current form. The radar chart, provided by Fbref, evaluates the Real Sociedad star’s percentile ranks across attacking, possession, and defensive metrics compared to other attacking midfielders and wingers over the last 365 days. It’s an invaluable insight for Liverpool fans speculating on whether he could fill the potential void left by Mohamed Salah.

Strengths in Progressive Play and Dribbling

Kubo’s standout numbers in progressive play demand attention. With a 95th percentile rank for progressive carries and 80th for successful take-ons, he showcases exceptional ability to advance the ball and beat opponents. His 79th percentile for touches in attacking areas further underscores his attacking involvement. Such qualities make him a natural fit for a possession-based system that relies on wingers to create openings.

Room for Improvement in Defensive Contributions

Defensively, Kubo’s stats highlight his limitations. While his 45th percentile rank in tackles and interceptions is adequate for an attacking player, his aerial ability (25th percentile) and blocks (33rd percentile) suggest areas that need improvement. However, this doesn’t detract from his offensive promise, as defensive contribution may not be the primary role Liverpool envision for him.

Balanced Attacking and Creative Output

Kubo’s attacking contributions are well-rounded, with his 83rd percentile rank for shot-creating actions standing out. While his non-penalty xG and expected assisted goals (36th percentile) don’t reflect elite scoring or creative potential, they still show a player capable of chipping in consistently. At 23, he has time to elevate these numbers under a manager like Arne Slot.

Kubo’s radar chart reflects a player who thrives in transition and creative roles. If Liverpool are indeed eyeing him as Salah’s successor, these stats suggest he could develop into a long-term asset.