As Liverpool prepares for life beyond Mohamed Salah, Ademola Lookman has emerged as a strong candidate to step into the role of the club’s attacking leader.
The Atalanta forward, known for his explosive style and impressive performances, shares a career trajectory similar to Salah’s and presents a compelling option for Liverpool’s future.
Parallels in Career Progression
Both Salah and Lookman have taken similar paths to reignite their careers, moving to Italy after initial stints in the Premier League. Salah’s transformation at Fiorentina and Roma paved the way for his dominance at Liverpool, and Lookman appears to be following a comparable route. The Nigerian international has been a standout performer at Atalanta, showing growth and maturity in his game.
Statistically, Lookman’s current numbers are on par with Salah’s. He surpasses the Egyptian in key areas such as shots per 90 minutes (3.66 vs. 3.12), non-penalty goals per 90 minutes (0.48 vs. 0.44), and combined non-penalty expected goals and expected assists per 90 minutes (0.88 vs. 0.87). If Lookman can maintain this form and recover fully from recent injuries, he has the potential to reach Salah’s elite level.
A Financially Sensible Choice
Liverpool’s decision to part ways with Salah, their highest earner, also brings financial considerations into play. Lookman represents a cost-effective solution, with an estimated market value of €40 million.
This makes him significantly more affordable than other potential targets, such as Mohamed Kudus. Furthermore, his wages would be considerably lower than Salah’s, providing Liverpool with more financial flexibility. Atalanta’s transparent asking price could also streamline negotiations, making Lookman a practical option for the Reds.
Proven Performer in Big Games
One of Salah’s defining characteristics has been his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, contributing 63 goals or assists against the Premier League’s “big six” teams.
Lookman has showcased similar qualities, scoring against top-tier opponents such as Real Madrid, Napoli, and AC Milan this season. His ability to perform on big stages highlights his readiness to take on the challenges of leading Liverpool’s attack.
Ademola Lookman offers Liverpool a combination of affordability, consistency, and the ability to thrive under pressure.
As the club looks to a future without Mohamed Salah, the Nigerian forward’s skill set and career trajectory make him a promising candidate to fill the void left by the Egyptian star.
