Report: Liverpool could trigger £50m clause to land Salah replacement | OneFootball

Liverpool Target Takefusa Kubo as Long-Term Successor to Mo Salah

Liverpool are monitoring Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo as their top candidate to replace Mohamed Salah, should the Egyptian leave Anfield this summer. According to TeamTalk, the Reds have maintained dialogue with Kubo’s representatives for over a year, and the Japanese international has emerged as the club’s “NUMBER ONE target” if Salah departs.

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Long-standing interest in Kubo continues

This is not a name plucked from a short-term shortlist. Liverpool’s interest in Kubo dates back to January 2024, with sources confirming that discussions with his entourage have never truly stopped. What’s changed now is the shifting landscape at Real Sociedad, and the growing uncertainty around Salah’s long-term future.

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At 23, Kubo has been a consistent performer in La Liga, registering seven goals and four assists this season. His standout performances in the Copa del Rey — particularly across the semi-final tie against Real Madrid — have enhanced his reputation. He notched an assist in the second leg of that dramatic 5-4 aggregate defeat, showcasing his technical craft and vision against elite opposition.

Sociedad’s struggles could prompt sale

Real Sociedad currently sit 10th in La Liga, facing a narrow path to European qualification. Should they fail to finish in the top eight, they may be forced to sell key assets — with Kubo and Arsenal-linked Martin Zubimendi leading the list of potential departures.

As TeamTalk reports, Kubo has a release clause of approximately €60m (£50m), which interested clubs view as good value. Tottenham and Bayern Munich are also tracking him, but Liverpool are said to have shown the most concrete interest so far.

Salah decision shapes the next move

Ultimately, Liverpool’s move for Kubo hinges on what happens with Salah. If he stays beyond this summer, the club may bide their time. If he leaves — as speculation continues to link him with Saudi Pro League clubs — Kubo becomes the front-runner to take his place on the right flank.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, reports like this feel all too familiar. There’s always a ‘next Salah’ waiting in the wings — and while Kubo is an exciting name, there’s reason for healthy scepticism.

Yes, the 23-year-old is technically sharp, fast in transition and experienced in La Liga. But replacing Salah is more than numbers and flair. It’s about impact in big moments, consistency over gruelling campaigns, and psychological edge. Salah has 20+ goals and double-digit assists every season. Kubo, while promising, is still building that level of output.

There’s also the issue of adaptation. La Liga to the Premier League is a leap, both in intensity and physicality. While the £50m release clause might look like a bargain in this inflated market, it’s still a significant outlay for a player who isn’t a sure thing.

Arne Slot may see Kubo as a stylistic fit, but the risk is real. And with competition from Bayern and Spurs, it’s no guarantee Liverpool even win the race. It’s one thing to track a player for 14 months — it’s another to land him and make him thrive at Anfield.