Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp reportedly expressed interest in signing Manchester United's £86 million winger Antony as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, according to reports.

Salah, whose prolific goal-scoring form has propelled Liverpool to the top of the Premier League table after 11 matches, is out of contract next summer and has yet to agree on an extension at Anfield.

Speculation regarding the Egyptian's future, alongside the uncertain contract situations of Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold, has dominated discussions on Merseyside this season, particularly following Klopp's departure at the end of the last campaign.

Should Salah opt to leave Liverpool for a fresh challenge, a move abroad is widely expected, with a transfer to Saudi Arabia heavily rumoured. His potential exit would force Liverpool's hierarchy into a critical summer, as they face the daunting task of replacing one of the club's all-time greats. Salah has already cemented his legacy at Anfield, scoring over 200 goals for the Reds.

Reports from The Times suggest that during contract negotiations with Salah and his agent Ramy Abbas two years ago, Klopp identified Antony as a possible successor. The Brazilian was reportedly discussed as an 'option' amid genuine uncertainty surrounding Salah's future at the time.

Antony ultimately signed for Manchester United in the summer of 2022, reuniting with former Ajax manager Erik ten Hag. His move to Old Trafford came with a staggering price tag but has so far proven underwhelming. The winger has managed just 17 goal contributions in 87 appearances for United.

It is understood that the decision not to pursue Antony fell to Mike Gordon, Fenway Sports Group's president, who oversaw Liverpool's day-to-day operations at the time. The Times suggests that this decision has since been vindicated, with Antony struggling to justify his transfer fee.

This season, under Erik ten Hag, Antony has featured in just five matches, starting only once – during Manchester United’s 7-0 victory over Barnsley in September. He has slipped further down the pecking order at Old Trafford, behind the likes of Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, and Amad Diallo.

As for Salah, despite persistent rumours linking him to a Saudi Arabian club, Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has expressed hope that the Egyptian will remain at Anfield.

Speaking on The Redmen TV podcast, Gerrard, now managing Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, praised Salah’s professionalism and consistency. “I hope we still get another couple of years out of Mo Salah. I think he can deliver for many more years because of his shape and his professionalism.

“So I hope he stays. I hope we get more out of him, but I’m not surprised by his consistency. Players of his calibre, who are obsessed with their craft, continue to deliver at the highest level,” Gerrard said.

Salah, who will aim to lead Liverpool to their second Premier League title under new manager Arne Slot, will travel with the team to face Southampton at St Mary’s this weekend.