Not Bradley Barcola: Andoni Iraola Prepares Surprise New Role for Liverpool Star to Replace Mohamed Salah

Liverpool Manager Eyes Tactical Reinvention as Reds Search for Life After Salah                                                                

    

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is reportedly preparing a surprise tactical solution to replace Mohamed Salah, with the club considering a dramatic positional change for Jeremie Frimpong rather than relying solely on an expensive move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.

The development comes as Liverpool continue exploring options to reshape their attack following Salah's departure after nine trophy-filled seasons at Anfield. While Barcola remains a long-term transfer target, Iraola is said to believe the club already possesses a player capable of filling the void through tactical reinvention.

Frimpong Set for Advanced Attacking Role

According to reports, Iraola plans to deploy Jeremie Frimpong in a far more advanced position on the right wing, reducing his defensive responsibilities and allowing him to maximise his pace, dribbling ability and attacking instincts.

Frimpong, naturally an attacking full-back, has consistently demonstrated his ability to create chances and make dangerous forward runs throughout his career. Liverpool believe those qualities could make him an effective replacement for Salah's influence on the right flank.

Barcola Deal Remains Difficult

Liverpool continue to admire Bradley Barcola, but negotiations remain complicated.

Paris Saint-Germain reportedly value the French international at well over £100 million, while the player is naturally more comfortable operating from the left wing—a position where Liverpool already possess several options, including Cody Gakpo and highly rated youngster Rio Ngumoha.

Those factors have encouraged Iraola to consider alternative solutions already within his squad rather than depending entirely on the transfer market.

Iraola Wants Quality Over Quantity

Speaking earlier in the summer, Iraola acknowledged Liverpool's need for another wide attacker but stressed that any signing must be capable of immediately competing at the highest level.

The Spanish coach said Liverpool would only pursue players who have already demonstrated elite quality rather than signing talent based solely on potential.

Tactical Flexibility

Liverpool's coaching staff believe Frimpong's attacking attributes—including his speed, movement and ability to stretch defences—could translate effectively into a winger's role.

Such a move would also allow the Reds to utilise other defensive options while giving Frimpong greater freedom in the final third.

The tactical adjustment reflects Iraola's reputation for adapting players to maximise their strengths rather than relying exclusively on new signings.

Liverpool Continue Transfer Search

Despite the reported tactical plan, Liverpool remain active in the transfer market as they continue evaluating potential attacking reinforcements before the transfer window closes.

Whether the club ultimately secures Barcola or another high-profile winger, Iraola's willingness to reinvent Frimpong demonstrates his determination to ensure Liverpool remain competitive following the departure of one of the Premier League's greatest-ever forwards.

With pre-season preparations continuing, supporters will be watching closely to see whether Frimpong becomes the unexpected successor to Salah on Liverpool's right wing.