Liverpool's Mo Salah replacement plan thrown into chaos after brutal statement

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Mirror or go back to LFC Live.

Liverpool are set to be without star forward Hugo Ekitike for the foreseeable future following his brutal injury against Paris Saint-Germain and the Reds are expected to feel lasting effectsLiverpool’s summer transfer plans may have been thrown into turmoil by Hugo Ekitike’s injury. France boss Didier Deschamps has already ruled the Liverpool star out of the World Cup.He said: "Hugo suffered a serious injury on Tuesday evening against PSG.

The severity of his injury will unfortunately prevent him from finishing the season with Liverpool and participating in the World Cup.“Hugo is one of the dozen young players who have made their debuts with the national team in recent months. We know he'll be fully behind the France team, and we're all thinking of him very strongly."And while Liverpool will feel the impact of Ekitike’s absence on the pitch - the former Eintracht Frankfurt forward having netted 17 goals across an impressive debut season - the Reds will also have to shoulder lasting effects.Ekitike, as well as fellow summer signing Alexander Isak, were both seen as potential internal replacements for the outgoing Mo Salah.

And should the Reds decide to splash the cash once more, that could potentially have a knock-on effect on the rest of their summer business.Arne Slot's men could also do with another centre-back following their defensive woes this season, while a left-back would also be useful following confirmation that Andrew Robertson will leave Anfield at the end of his contract.Following last summer’s huge outlay, Liverpool might not be able to spend similar fees this time around so club chiefs might have to be creative to get new faces through the door.Of course, some outgoings could help the club generate the funds they need for a big-name attacking signing in the summer. As I said many times the future looks very good, especially if we can sign players after good players leaving this summer."Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content.