Reports have surfaced that former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp once considered Manchester United’s £86 million signing Antony as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah during a period of uncertainty surrounding the Egyptian forward’s future.Salah, a pivotal figure in Liverpool’s rise to the top of the Premier League this season, is yet to agree on an extension to his contract, which expires in the summer. His prolific form, alongside speculation about the futures of Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold, has dominated discussions on Merseyside, especially following Klopp’s departure at the end of last season.While Liverpool fans hope Salah will stay, a move abroad—most likely to Saudi Arabia—remains a strong possibility, particularly given the recent influx of high-profile players to the league.##NAJAVA_MECA_8512001##According to The Times, Klopp identified Antony as a possible successor to Salah two summers ago during a tense period of negotiations between Liverpool and Salah’s agent, Ramy Abbas. Antony was seen as an option in case the club failed to secure Salah’s long-term commitment.However, Liverpool ultimately renewed Salah’s contract, while Antony went on to join Manchester United in 2022 for a record fee, reuniting with his former Ajax manager Erik ten Hag.Since his high-profile move to Old Trafford, Antony has struggled to justify his price tag, recording just 17 goal contributions in 87 appearances. This season, the Brazilian winger has fallen further down the pecking order, with players like Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo taking precedence on the wings. Antony has made just five appearances this season, starting only once in a 7-0 win over Barnsley.Liverpool’s decision to pass on Antony has been credited to Mike Gordon, Fenway Sports Group’s president at the time, who reportedly decided against pursuing the Brazilian.Emotional Salah: ‘Everybody will leave one day. I always remember the good things’As Salah continues to shine for Liverpool, speculation over his future remains a focal point. Despite reports linking the forward to a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia, Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has expressed his hope that Salah stays at Anfield for “another couple of years.”On The Redmen TV podcast, Gerrard praised Salah’s professionalism and consistency, stating: “I hope we still get another couple of years out of Mo Salah. His shape and obsession with his profession mean he can deliver for many more years.”As Liverpool, now under manager Arne Slot, aim for their second Premier League title, Salah remains a critical figure in their campaign. The Reds are set to face Southampton at St. Mary’s this weekend, with fans eager to see their talisman continue his excellent form amid the ongoing uncertainty over his long-term future.
