Liverpool was reportedly close to signing a Real Madrid forward who could have been replaced by Kylian Mbappé in 2018.

Now, Jürgen Klopp may consider pursuing him again. Liverpool has often been linked to players in transfer rumors that persist for a long time without any actual signings materializing. Arda Turan was one such player, and Real Madrid’s Fede Valverde might be headed in the same direction.

With an eye on finding a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah at Anfield, several players of this nature may continue to emerge. One recent link connects Liverpool and Real Madrid to Rafael Leão, suggesting a potential transfer worth $160 million (£131 million/€150 million). Given his previous association with the Reds as a target, he could join the growing list of potential successors.

Liverpool will eventually need to secure a replacement for Salah, even if it doesn’t happen for a few more years. The latest rumor seems to have a bit more credibility.

Considering that Real Madrid is reportedly pursuing Kylian Mbappé, Fichajes now suggests two reasons why Brazilian star Rodrygo could be on the move: firstly, to generate funds (since Mbappé won’t come cheap even though he’s out of contract) and secondly, to create space in the squad for the departing French superstar.

According to the report, fellow Real Madrid attacker Vinícius Júnior is considered “untouchable,” which implies that Rodrygo may be the one to make way. A price tag of at least $107 million (£87 million/€100 million) is mentioned, which is approximately double what the Spanish club paid for the winger.

Rodrygo joined Real Madrid in 2019, arriving from the same Brazilian club that produced Neymar. At that time, he was only 18 years old and had already played 63 matches for Santos. He won’t turn 23 until January.

Since joining Real Madrid, Rodrygo has scored 17 goals in 113 appearances and has also earned 16 caps for Brazil. While there is room for improvement in these numbers, his talent is evident.

Real Madrid has been keen on acquiring talented Brazilian forwards since they missed out on Neymar to Barcelona. They were determined not to let that happen again, and while Rodrygo hasn’t reached Neymar’s levels, he has been a key player since arriving from South America.

The rumored Liverpool interest in Rodrygo is driven by concerns that Mohamed Salah could leave. There is strong interest in the Egyptian from Saudi Arabia, and next summer, he will have only one year left on his Anfield contract. While it’s not the preferred scenario, planning for Salah’s potential departure may need to begin.