Liverpool told their ideal Mohamed Salah replacement is already in the Premier League as Reds are warned they must prepare for Trent Alexander-Arnold exit

Salah, who is in the final year of his current contract, has yet to commit to an extension, increasing the likelihood of a free transfer exit next summer. However, Bowen, an England international and West Ham captain, has been touted as his natural replacement. His consistent performances, particularly during his career-best 2023-24 season, where he recorded 20 goals and 10 assists, have cemented his reputation as a top talent. The winger’s ability to cut in on his left foot makes him an automatic fit for Salah’s right-wing position.

Speaking to talkSPORT BET, McCoist expressed his admiration for Bowen, stating: "Liverpool should replace Mohamed Salah with Jarrod Bowen if Salah was to leave. West Ham fans won’t be very happy with me for saying it, he is top class. I really like Bowen. I see a lot of people making comments that he’s too good for West Ham, he’s not too good for West Ham because they’re a great club.

“He’s good enough to play Champions League football on a consistent basis though, that’s a fact. I really enjoy watching him and he could easily step into that team and play Champions League football. My priority would be keeping Salah, of course, but if he were to move on Liverpool should look at Bowen.”

In addition to uncertainty surrounding Salah, speculation about Alexander-Arnold’s future has grown. Reports suggest that Real Madrid are monitoring the right-back's situation closely, with plans to pursue him as a free agent. Liverpool are keen to retain the 25-year-old, but the absence of a new contract agreement has fueled rumours of an imminent departure.

McCoist weighed in on the situation, saying: "I think Trent Alexander-Arnold will be at Real Madrid next season. I hate to say it because I like to see the world’s best players staying in the Premier League and he is one of those. I think if he were to stay, he and Liverpool would’ve come to an agreement over a contract before now to secure his future at the club and the fact he hasn’t makes me think that Real Madrid is where he will be lining up next season.”

While the uncertainty surrounding Salah and Alexander-Arnold persists, Liverpool will shift their focus to maintaining their strong start to the Premier League campaign with the Reds set to face Newcastle on Wednesday. They have a nine-point lead over second-placed Arsenal and will look to extend it further on Tyneside.