Liverpool are in a fascinating spot right now as the 2025/26 season heads toward a finish under Arne Slot. The team are still a real threat in the Premier League, but Mohamed Salah’s confirmed exit this summer has definitely rattled the fanbase.
Supporters are desperate to see how the board plans to replace such a massive goalscorer while finally sorting out the depth in midfield. There is a real sense of nerves building at Anfield, especially with the feeling that a few other veterans might follow Salah out the door to make way for fresh blood.
Baleba and Gordon update
A new update from transfer insider Ekrem Konur suggests Liverpool are looking at two established Premier League names to lead this summer’s overhaul. Taking to social media, Konur reported that Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba and Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon have moved to the top of the Reds’ wishlist.
The recruitment team apparently sees this duo as the perfect candidates for the club’s next chapter. While Baleba’s heavily rumoured move to Manchester United fell through last year, he’s still highly rated on the South Coast, even if his form has been a bit up and down lately.
The Gordon interest feels like a familiar story, too. Liverpool were incredibly close to signing the former Everton man back in 2024. Even though Newcastle will want a massive fee, reports suggest Liverpool might be ready to drop over £100 million in a double swoop to get both deals over the line before next season.
Should Liverpool prioritise the flair of Gordon or the grit of Baleba?
Looking at the numbers for the 2025/26 season, 25-year-old Anthony Gordon has been flying for both Newcastle and England. He’s been particularly lethal in the Champions League, bagging 10 goals in just 12 games, which is a clinical run that few English attackers can match right now.
His league stats are solid as well, with 6 goals and 2 assists in 25 games, and his work rate off the ball is still a huge asset. On the other hand, 22-year-old Carlos Baleba brings a totally different energy. Playing for Cameroon and Brighton, he’s been a wall in midfield, racking up 233 ball regains and 121 tackles this term. His passing can be a bit sloppy at times, but that physical presence is exactly what Liverpool have missed in those big, high-pressure games recently.
Arsenal are pushing to sign this €80 million winger this summer
In my view, Anthony Gordon is the priority. His directness and experience in Europe would go a long way in softening the blow of losing Salah. Baleba is a great prospect with huge potential, but Liverpool already have several young midfielders who could eventually step into that role. Realistically, Gordon feels like the more likely move. He grew up supporting Liverpool, and Newcastle might find themselves forced to sell to stay on the right side of financial rules. If the Reds want to keep challenging for titles, they need the proven goal-threat that Gordon offers.
