Liverpool have been advised against making a January move for Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo by club icon John Barnes, who also claims the public rift between Mohamed Salah and manager Arne Slot will not force the Egyptian superstar out of Anfield.
Barnes Backs Salah to Resolve Slot Dispute
The future of Mohamed Salah has been a major talking point this month after the 33-year-old launched a stunning public critique of head coach Arne Slot. The outburst followed Liverpool's 3-3 draw with Leeds United, which was the fourth Premier League match in a row Salah started on the bench.
Speaking after the game, Salah stated he had "no relationship" with Slot and felt he was being "thrown under the bus" by the club. He further hinted that the subsequent 2-0 victory over Brighton could have been his last appearance for the Reds before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations.
However, in an exclusive interview with Mirror Football via BetMGM, Barnes played down the crisis. The former winger, now 62, believes both men will stay and that their disagreement is reparable. "It's not a question of Arne Slot or Mo going, both of them will stay," Barnes asserted.
He suggested any departure would be Salah's choice, likely for a move to Saudi Arabia, rather than being forced out. "Mo is at an age now where, of course, he won't necessarily improve and get much better. But he's here, he can still be a top player," Barnes added, expressing hope Salah sees out the final year of his contract.
Liverpool Told to Avoid January Splash for Semenyo
Amid the speculation over Salah, Liverpool have been heavily linked with a move for Bournemouth's in-form attacker Antoine Semenyo. The 25-year-old Ghana international has been in fine form this season, contributing seven goals and three assists in 15 Premier League appearances.
Despite signing a new long-term deal until 2030 in the summer, it is reported that contract contains a £65 million release clause that becomes active in the January transfer window. The clause can be triggered by any club, with Manchester United, Tottenham, Manchester City and Arsenal also credited with interest.
Barnes, however, is adamant that a major January signing for the attack is not the solution for Liverpool. The Reds invested heavily in their forward line last summer, bringing in Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz.
"January is not a time to sign players," Barnes stated firmly. "We haven't got a problem scoring goals and creating chances. We've got Gakpo, we've got Isak, we've got Wirtz, we still have Mo. We have Ngumoha. That is not a problem for us."
He acknowledged Semenyo's quality but stressed the need for patience and addressing other areas of the squad first. "I think we have problems in other positions that we need to look at before Semenyo... January, for me, is never a time to sign players," he concluded.
What Happens Next for Salah and Liverpool?
The immediate focus for Liverpool is navigating Salah's absence during the Africa Cup of Nations, which runs until late January. His relationship with Slot upon his return will be scrutinised intensely.
Barnes's comments suggest the club's hierarchy should focus on reconciliation rather than a panic-buy replacement. With a £65m decision to make on Semenyo and other elite clubs circling, Liverpool's January strategy will be a key indicator of their faith in Slot's current squad and his ability to manage his star player.
