Liverpool's search for a successor to Mohamed Salah may have led them to Serie A, with reports emerging that the club is closely monitoring teenage star Assane Diao. The 19-year-old winger has caught the attention of both Liverpool and Newcastle United, despite having only recently completed a move to Como in January.
According to CaughtOffside, "Liverpool and Newcastle are attentive to teenage sensation Assane Diao despite the winger's recent switch to Como, CaughtOffside has been told." Given Diao's rapid adaptation to Italian football and his standout performances, it is easy to see why Premier League clubs are keeping a close eye on his development.
Rising Star in Serie A
Diao arrived at Como from Real Betis for a club-record €12 million fee and has wasted no time making an impact. With four goals in his first four matches, he has proven his ability to perform at a high level, showcasing the raw talent that made him a standout prospect in La Liga.
The Spanish attacker, originally from Senegal, has already represented Spain at various youth levels, including the U-21 side. He was part of the squad that lifted the U-19 European Championship in 2024, further underlining his pedigree. With his combination of speed, dribbling, and finishing ability, Diao has demonstrated why clubs across Europe have been tracking his progress.
Liverpool's Long-Term Plans for the Right Flank
Liverpool's interest in Diao is particularly intriguing given the uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah's future. With the Egyptian icon's contract set to expire at the end of the season and no clear progress on a renewal, the club's recruitment team is actively assessing potential replacements.
CaughtOffside notes: "Should Salah bid farewell, the Reds would be left with a considerable void in their attacking ranks on the right flank." While replacing Salah's consistency and world-class output will be a monumental task, Liverpool appear to be preparing for every possibility.
Diao, with his versatility and goal-scoring ability, fits the profile of a player Liverpool might look to develop within Arne Slot's system. At 19, he represents a raw but exciting talent who could be moulded into a long-term option for the club.
Newcastle's Interest and Premier League Competition
Newcastle are also in the hunt for reinforcements in attacking areas following Miguel Almirón's departure. Eddie Howe's side has prided itself on attacking intensity and width, and with their ambitions of maintaining a top-four push, bolstering the right flank remains a priority.
While Newcastle's spending power makes them a viable competitor for any young talent, Liverpool's recent track record with developing wingers—most notably Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo—could give them an edge in any potential transfer battle.
At this stage, any move for Diao remains speculative, particularly given his recent switch to Como. However, the fact that Liverpool and Newcastle continue to track him suggests that his name is one to watch in the coming months.
Our View – Anfield Index
For Liverpool fans, any talk of replacing Mohamed Salah is bound to stir debate. The Egyptian King has been a game-changer for the club, and while a move for Diao may seem premature, it does highlight Liverpool's forward-planning approach in the transfer market.
Diao is an exciting talent—quick, direct, and with an eye for goal—but whether he could realistically step into Salah's boots is another question entirely. At just 19, he remains untested at the highest level of European competition, and there is always the risk of overhyping young players too soon.
A move for Diao may not happen in the immediate future, but if Liverpool are monitoring him now, it could signal that they see him as a long-term investment rather than a short-term fix.
If Salah does leave, Liverpool will need more than just potential—they will need proven quality. Whether Diao fits that bill remains to be seen, but for now, fans will be watching his development closely.
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