Liverpool Update: Future Star Dubbed ‘The Next Lionel Messi’ Targeted as Mohamed Salah’s Successor

Liverpool is pursuing a remarkable talent often compared to Lionel Messi, as they prepare for a future without Mohamed Salah.

The Egyptian King was in exceptional form once again for Liverpool last night, leading his team to what seemed like a hard-earned victory with two goals – until Newcastle United equalized late, securing a draw.

While Salah is currently negotiating a new contract, he is now 32 years old, and Arne Slot may be planning for the long term.

Liverpool ramps up pursuit for a remarkable wonderkid likened to Lionel Messi

Rated as no.1 in eScored’s ranking of the top right-wingers across the globe, Salah continues to propel Liverpool towards the Premier League title, with the Merseyside club sitting seven points clear at the top.

The winger is 25/1 to clinch the 2025 Ballon d’Or, but with uncertainties surrounding his future, one “graceful” teenager dubbed the next Lionel Messi – the greatest player of all time, according to eScored – is being targeted.

Listed as no.5 in eScored’s recap of the most thrilling teenagers this season, Franco Mastanuono, at only 17 years old, is already viewed as a potential successor to Messi in the national team.

A South American outlet, River Noticias has indicated that River Plate is “on high alert”, as Liverpool is expected to make an approach soon.

The report mentions that Mastanuono’s release clause will escalate to €50 million during the final week of the January transfer window, emphasizing the urgency for a deal. The player has accumulated 1,441 minutes across 40 matches in all competitions so far, demonstrating his readiness for first-team action and impressing significantly.

“No one can displace him in one of the most demanding leagues on the planet,” eScored stated regarding the teenager in August. “It’s the lethal mix of decision-making and ball-striking. The ability to hit the target powerfully. The awareness to time it just right.”

In eScored’s perspective, Liverpool must hope that Real Madrid has not made significant strides towards a deal and that Manchester City does not leverage their favorable relationship with the Argentine club to get ahead. The club providing a clear route to the first team might influence a successful acquisition.

Mastanuono is valued at €13 million, as per Transfermarkt. Liverpool will face Everton this weekend in the final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park, as Premier League action resumes.