The Kylian Mbappe transfer decision that could hand Liverpool unexpected pay-off

Liverpool’s summer was a real whirlwind. Not only did they execute a complete midfield overhaul — which saw five players leave and four join the ranks — but the boat was rocked by a Saudi Arabian storm.

Al-Ittihad, who had already forked out £40 million for Fabinho, came knocking and then pounding on the door for the services of Mohamed Salah. With 275 goal contributions since he joined the Reds, it’s no surprise at all that clubs are nipping at the Egyptian’s heels, especially those in the Pro League. The SPL has been vacuuming up some of the world’s most high profile footballers over the last few months as it looks to stamp itself firmly on the map.

In a fierce tug of war over prized possession Salah, Liverpool rejected a mammoth £150 million offer from Al-Ittihad. The club then returned with a reported figure in excess of £200 million and an eye-watering contract to match. That amount of money would have given the Reds more than enough to bring in a suitable replacement and then some, as the price would have eclipsed the current world transfer record.

Liverpool made it abundantly clear that Salah was not for sale during the summer, but the future is uncertain. It seems unlikely that he will leave in January and abandon ship halfway through what is shaping up to be a very promising season for the Reds, but next summer is another story. Once the 2024 summer window opens, Salah will have entered the final year of his current contract.

Given the intense interest from Saudi Arabia and the mega money involved, it would be foolish for fans to believe Liverpool can hold onto Salah forever. Like any player, a time comes for an era to end and Jurgen Klopp needs to prepare for life without his star forward.

A lot of names have been thrown into the mix since the rapidly swirling departure talks — some have been genuine transfer links, and some simply food for thought. One man who has been on Liverpool’s radar in the past and resurfaced this summer was Kylian Mbappé. Once upon a time, Reds fans truly believed they could coax the global superstar to Anfield to become their longed for out-and-out No.9. This time round, the links were brushed off as Mbappé’s desire is to join Real Madrid, and all signs point to him making the move on a free transfer next summer.

This then opens up a big discussion over at the Bernabéu. If Mbappé signs for Madrid, who will he be replacing? Because the world doesn’t need a crystal ball to see into the future and know life in Spain on the bench is definitely not on the cards for the Frenchman.

Carlo Ancelotti has opted for two strikers in his attack this season, with Jude Bellingham operating just behind in an attacking midfield role. Joselu, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo have alternated up top throughout the term so far, meaning if Mbappé joins the ranks, he will be elbowing one of the front men out.

Joselu is currently on loan from Espanyol but his contract there expires in 2025 and Madrid have an option to make the deal permanent. Despite being 33 years old and ten years senior to the other two forwards, he has tallied the most LaLiga goal contributions (seven) compared to Vinicius (three) and Rodrygo (two).

Both Vinicius and Rodrygo have been tied down with new deals, showing Madrid’s desire to keep them both at the club. However, the potential arrival of Mbappé could open the door for offers for either one of the two attacking stars.

It could be argued that Vinicius would be the favoured option to stay if Ancelotti was forced to choose between the two. The Brazilian has made 232 appearances compared to Rodrygo’s 176 over a similar amount of time, and has been involved in 127 goals compared to his compatriot’s 71.

Like Salah, Rodrygo is a natural right winger and Liverpool need that first and foremost when it comes to eventually replacing the Egyptian. What makes the Madrid star similar to Klopp’s talisman is that they can both play across the entire front three, which is something Liverpool have relied on over the years. Salah has slotted into many roles when called upon and performed at world class level, so the Reds will need someone of similar calibre.

Over the years, Liverpool have failed to replace key players with like-for-like signings but this case is one that definitely needs a blockbuster recruit to come through the door. It’s unlikely Saudi Arabia will return with a £200 million plus offer, but a nine-figure bid of some sort could still be expected and Liverpool would be foolish not to splash the lot on a replacement.

Rodrygo is currently valued at €100 million (£86m) by Transfermarkt but Madrid would probably want a fair bit more if they were to consider parting ways with the 22-year-old. Having only just signed a new deal last year, nothing has suggested the Brazilian winger is on the move but the transfer window is famous for its twists and turns. If Madrid finally get their hands on Mbappé, will they offload a big player to free up some space on both the teamsheet and payroll?

Let’s not forget Los Blancos agreed a deal with Dortmund that could surpass £115 million for Bellingham just three months ago. Every club has its limits when it comes to spending money and Madrid would make a pretty penny back through the sale of someone like Rodrygo. If Liverpool cash in on Salah next summer, they will surely land a profit on the 31-year-old and will be able to put a very handsome chunk of money towards a suitable replacement.