Liverpool get green light for forward deal as potential Salah successor want move

Liverpool tied Mohamed Salah down to a new contract before the end of last season. With his previous deal expiring in summer 2025, the Egyptian King put pen to paper on new terms - meaning he will be at Anfield until 2027.

But the process to MOVE ON from the now 33-year-old is already seemingly underway. Michael OIise has been linked consistently over the last number of weeks with the Bayern Munich superstar being lined up for a return to the Premier League.

🔴 Shop the LFC 2025/26 adidas home range

Richard Hughes, the Liverpool sporting director, will be mindful to include a full shortlist for Salah successors however. The plan - according to Liverpool insider Lewis Steele - is to line up replacements for Salah and Virgil van Dijk BEFORE their contracts expire.

🔴 Shop the LFC 2025/26 adidas away range

It means the Premier League champions will be under less pressure when the time comes to sign players in their place. And one name who has been on the list for at least a year is Takefusa Kubo.

Takefusa Kubo wants to move on from Real Sociedad

The Japan winger is currently at Real Sociedad - under contract until 2028. But things are not going to plan for the Basque side - who have only picked up TWO points from their opening five matches of the season.

According to a report in Fichajes, Kubo is dissatisfied with life at the club right now and is ready to force a move away. Arsenal are mentioned as being ready to aim for a €45m deal - although Kubo’s contract includes a €60m release clause.

“Takefusa Kubo, the 24-year-old Japanese winger, is one of the Basque team's most prominent players, but he's not satisfied with the current situation,” the report reads.

“His inconsistency at the start of the season and the lack of reinforcements have increased his discontent, and he could seek a change of scenery."

Arsenal prepared to make offer for Kubo

The Gunners have got former Sociedad players like Mikel Merino, Martin Odegaard and Martin Zubimendi on board and may fancy their chances of making another deal.

“Arsenal are reportedly willing to offer around €45 million for Takefusa Kubo, although the player's release clause is currently as high as €60 million,” the report continues.

“Furthermore, Real Madrid retains 50% of the rights to a future sale, further complicating negotiations."

However Liverpool’s interest is well-documented and they boast a former Kubo teammate in the ranks now with Alexander Isak.

“Analysts and specialized media believe that, given the player's discontent, he could force his departure, which would make it easier for Arsenal to sign him for a fee lower than the clause,” the report reads.

Kubo needs a fresh start

Kubo has scored 24 goals and provided 18 assists in 142 matches for Real Sociedad since his debut in the 2022/23 season. He scored in their opening game of the campaign but has been off the boil and could do with a move to reinvigorate his career.

This would certainly be a BARGAIN transfer given Kubo’s class and potential but the Reds are going to have some stiff competition in the shape of Arsenal.

🔴 Shop the LFC 2025/26 adidas home range

👉🏻 Man City midfielder confirms he's joining Liverpool

👉🏻 Wonderkid lined up to REPLACE Ibrahima Konate

👉🏻 Richard Hughes, you genius: INCREDIBLE deal comes to light