Mohamed Salah’s transfer to Liverpool isn’t a sealed deal yet and we are already trying to bring in Gelson Martins of Sporting Lisbon in place of the Egyptian winger. BBC reports that AS Roma, Salah’s current club are expecting more than £40 million for the 24-year-old and that is a price we are not willing to pay. Martins is only 22 years old and the BBC understands that we have made contact with the Portuguese club for the right-sided winger.

What is surprising is the release clause for the Portugal international which is touted to be around the £50 million mark. Before any of us tear our hair out on landing the player for £50 million, it is important to know that Sporting are a selling club and with no guarantee of Champions League football next season, they might be forced to sell one of their stars. Martins was one of their best players last season and scored six times while providing nine assists in 32 league games for Sporting. He also is known for his dribbling ability and does have pace, making him a decent option for our playing style.

However, one can’t refrain from pointing out that Salah seems to be a more rounded player that can do well in the Premier League thanks to his experience of being here with Chelsea. The Egyptian’s sale to Roma and his experience of playing in Serie A surely would make him a player that carries lower risk as we look to splash the cash on a winger. The rumour of Martins joining Liverpool certainly comes up at an interesting time as the Italian club want more for Salah and we won’t be held ransom to their needs. There are other players that can star in the same role as Salah if we use our scouting network. And this link with Martins could be a move to ensure Roma don’t waste our time and let the former Chelsea man join us faster.