TalkSPORT pundit Tony Cascarino has suggested that Liverpool should consider targeting Brentford star Bryan Mbuemo as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.
This comes in the wake of Liverpool’s unexpected defeat to Nottingham Forest at Anfield, which marked their first loss under new manager Arne Slot. Despite Salah’s contributions, he was unable to help the Reds avoid the 1-0 defeat.
Although Liverpool managed to retain Salah during the summer transfer window, uncertainty looms over his future, as well as that of key players Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk, all of whom are out of contract at the end of the 2024-2025 season.
Salah, in particular, has been the subject of ongoing interest from the Saudi Pro League, and it’s expected that the interest will continue. While there is speculation that Salah could extend his stay at Anfield, the possibility of his departure remains a real concern for Liverpool.
Recent reports indicate that Liverpool is preparing to open contract negotiations with the Egyptian forward in an effort to secure his services beyond next summer. However, the club is well aware that Salah’s exit is inevitable at some point, and they are likely already preparing for life without him.
Liverpool has likely drawn up several succession plans and is weighing up options for a long-term replacement. Among the possible strategies is looking to international talent, as they did when considering players like Federico Chiesa, or seeking solutions from within the Premier League.
Cascarino has thrown Mbuemo’s name into the mix as a viable option. Speaking to talkSPORT, the pundit expressed his admiration for the Brentford forward and his suitability to fill Salah’s shoes at Anfield. “I remember saying if Mo Salah left, Mbuemo would be the one I would have gone after,” Cascarino said. “He’s got so much about him—he’s got goals, he’s durable, and he’s just a nuisance every time he plays.”
Mbuemo has been a standout player for Brentford since his arrival from French club Troyes in 2019. The 25-year-old Cameroon international has racked up 53 goals and 42 assists across 204 appearances for the Bees, establishing himself as one of the most consistent attacking threats in the Premier League.
Valued at around £35 million, Mbuemo has been a vital part of Brentford’s rise in English football, but with his contract set to expire in 2026, he may soon face a critical decision about his future.
Whether he chooses to extend his stay with Brentford or seek a new challenge remains to be seen, but his performances have certainly attracted attention from bigger clubs.
With his combination of goal-scoring ability, work rate, and versatility, Mbuemo appears to possess the qualities necessary to succeed at a higher level. If Salah were to leave, Liverpool would need someone who can replicate his ability to deliver in key moments, and Mbuemo’s profile suggests he could be a good fit for that role.
Given his current form and relatively modest price tag, Liverpool could see Mbuemo as a smart investment as they plan for the next phase of the squad’s development.
