Liverpool are weighing up a move for Chelsea winger Estêvão Willian as they seek a high-profile successor to Mohamed Salah, according to reports from Spain and Livescore. The Anfield hierarchy is reportedly prepared to offer between €80m and €100m (£69.2m–£86.5m) for the 19-year-old Brazilian, who is viewed as a primary candidate to fill the void when Salah ends his nine-year tenure this summer. Following the Egyptian’s official announcement in March that he will depart at the end of the 2025/26 campaign, Liverpool have accelerated their search for a left-footed attacker capable of replicating his output on the right flank.
The tactical and financial reality of the Estêvão interest
Targeting Estêvão represents a significant pivot for Liverpool, who typically avoid the premium associated with intra-Big Six transfers. However, Chelsea’s current mid-table standing under Enzo Maresca and ongoing pressure to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) may force the sale of prize assets. Chelsea signed the winger for an initial £29m, meaning a deal at the reported €100m ceiling would represent a substantial profit. This follows a precedent of Chelsea offloading talent to rivals, such as Noni Madueke’s £50m move to Arsenal in 2025. For Liverpool, the move is a necessity; Salah has contributed over 250 goals during his time on Merseyside, and Arne Slot’s side has struggled this season, currently trailing league leaders Arsenal by 20 points.
Shortlist alternatives and the market for Salah's successor
While Estêvão is a leading contender, Liverpool are exploring several avenues to rebuild their attack. According to Flavien Trésarrieu of L'Équipe, the club is also monitoring Monaco’s 24-year-old attacking midfielder Maghnes Akliouche, who is valued at approximately €50m. Additionally, reports from Le 10 Sport suggest Liverpool remain "insistent" on pursuing Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain. This multi-track approach indicates a desire to secure a younger profile of attacker who fits the high-intensity system implemented by Slot. With Salah’s final game at Anfield scheduled for May 24 against Brentford, the club is under pressure to finalise a succession plan before the pre-season begins.
Negotiations are expected to intensify following the conclusion of the Premier League season as Chelsea assesses its final financial position.