Gordon and Bowen Lead Liverpool’s Target List Following Ekitike Injury Setback

The changing landscape is prompting a more assertive reassessment of their attacking strategies for the upcoming season, particularly as the French forward grapples with an Achilles injury sustained against Paris Saint-Germain, which may keep him off the pitch for several months.

This situation arises concurrently with the prospect of Mohamed Salah leaving the club at the conclusion of the current campaign.

The circumstances are further complicated by Liverpool’s overall uncertainty; there is still no guarantee of Champions League football for next season, nor any solid assurances regarding the future of Arne Slot at the helm.

Ekitike’s injury, coupled with Salah’s possible departure, threatens to deprive Liverpool of both consistency and sharpness in attack—at least until Ekitike is fully recovered.

Initial reports indicate he might be out of action until 2027.

While the club already planned to recruit a new player this summer, it now seems imperative to bolster the forward line immediately.

This scenario presents two clear avenues for recruitment: pursuing a direct replacement for Salah, as originally intended, or targeting a more versatile forward capable of playing across multiple positions.

Among the alternatives being considered is Juventus striker Francisco Conceicao, along with RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, who is also under close scrutiny.

However, due to the need for Liverpool to avoid missteps in the transfer market, there’s a strong likelihood they will focus on securing experienced talent from the Premier League.

Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon is one player on their radar, having attracted interest from Liverpool previously. With rising attention from clubs like Arsenal and Bayern Munich, Liverpool may feel the urgency to act quickly.

Jarrod Bowen is another potential target. He has long been admired by those at the Merseyside club, yet previously appeared to be out of reach and remains firmly attached to West Ham United.

Nonetheless, given Liverpool’s status, they’re in a position to challenge West Ham’s resolve and explore what it would take to facilitate such a transaction.

Sources suggest that Liverpool’s recruitment team is accelerating their efforts, aiming to finalise their preferred targets by May, ensuring they are prepared to enter the transfer market as soon as it opens.