Liverpool can sign the missing piece of their attack for just £70m next summer after transfer update - opinion

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The price tag of a Liverpool transfer target, who has been linked to Manchester City and Chelsea as well, has been shared, and it could be an excellent deal for Arne Slot’s side.The Reds are expected to make changes to their squad in 2026, with Rousing The Kop previously revealing they wish to sign a new centre-back, or two, next year.Further forward, questions have been asked about Mohamed Salah’s future at Anfield.Join our newsletter for news & smart analysis. The Saudi Pro League want the Liverpool winger and have previously made a big offer for the Egyptian.Now, an update on a potential Salah replacement has emerged on Saturday.Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty ImagesLiverpool were linked with Rodrygo over the summer, with it suggested they were out for ‘revenge’ on Real Madrid after the Spanish giants signed Trent Alexander-Arnold.The Brazilian opted to remain with Los Blancos for the start of 2025/26, but his future continues to be called into question.Journalist Ekrem Konur has now reported on X/Twitter that Chelsea are not in the race for the winger right now, while Pep Guardiola remains a fan.Crucially, he added that Rodrygo could be available for around £70m, which would be a real bargain considering what he can offer to the current Premier League champions.Why Liverpool need to beat Man City to Rodrygo dealAs mentioned, Salah still has interest from the Middle East, and whether or not he stays at Liverpool beyond 2026 is hard to predict.Should he depart, trying to replace the goals and assists provided by the 33-year-old will not be easy.The Reds can’t really afford to take a risk on a young, lesser-known talent to fill the void left by Salah, leaving Rodrygo as an obvious candidate.Now 24, he is closing in on 300 appearances for the European powerhouse, already providing 121 goal contributions and helping Real secure two Champions League titles and three La Liga crowns.Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty ImagesWhen you consider that Florian Wirtz cost over £100m, paying over £30m less for someone of Rodrygo’s pedigree seems like such a no-brainer.But even if he’s not brought in to replace Salah, the South American could still be a useful asset elsewhere in Slot’s eleven.Liverpool are missing Luis Diaz on the left this term, but Rodrygo’s versatility means he could also be a starter on that flank.He’s played 88 games on the left wing, as well as making 84 appearances as a centre-forward.On top of being an incredibly experienced, serial winner who can play all across the front line, Liverpool landing the Brazilian would deal a blow to their long-time rivals, Man City.This would obviously be the least important consideration when FSG and co. are mulling over a potential offer, but beating your competitors to a deal is always positive.