The data behind Liverpool's interest in Semenyo and Minteh as Salah's heir

Liverpool fans are already looking towards January, and so are the club’s decision-makers. When the window opens, there will be noise, names and narratives, but two players are standing out in early conversations: Antoine Semenyo and Yankuba Minteh.

These are not fantasy names. These are real targets with real qualities that fit what Liverpool need. Neither would be cheap, and neither is a guaranteed starter, but both deserve a proper look. Especially with what’s starting to feel like a growing uncertainty around Mohamed Salah’s long-term future.

Let’s be clear, Salah remains a world-class player. But the off-ball demands in Arne Slot’s system are starting to evolve, and there are signs that Salah’s output in those areas is declining. It is no disrespect to one of the club’s all-time greats to explore realistic options. In Semenyo and Minteh, there are two profiles who could fill a different role in a front three.