Liverpool target Bournemouth winger Rayan as Mohamed Salah successor
Liverpool have joined a host of top European clubs in the race to sign Bournemouth winger Rayan as they search for a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah.
The 19-year-old Brazilian has attracted interest from Arsenal, Bayern Munich, Paris St-Germain and Real Madrid following an outstanding breakthrough campaign on the south coast.
Discussions regarding a £60m move to Merseyside are reportedly under way, though Bournemouth’s owners could hold out for a fee closer to £85m.
Reuniting with Iraola
A switch to Anfield would reunite the highly-rated teenager with newly appointed Reds manager Andoni Iraola.
The Basque coach recently took charge of Liverpool ahead of the 2026-27 season, replacing Arne Slot following a disappointing league campaign.
During their time together at the Vitality Stadium, the former Cherries boss heavily praised the South American’s willingness to embrace defensive responsibilities.
“Watching Rayan one against one against Jeremy Doku, accepting, celebrating defensive plays, I was almost crying, because it’s what they need,” Iraola told the Daily Echo in May.
“It’s like he has talent, it’s a natural thing, but they have to make a bigger step in to being more complete, especially without the ball.”
Life after Salah
The Anfield hierarchy faces the monumental task of replacing their Egyptian talisman, who departed Merseyside this summer.
Ending a spectacular nine-year stint, the prolific forward delivered a staggering 380 goal contributions in 442 appearances for the club.
Rayan only arrived in English football from Vasco da Gama in January for an initial £24.7m fee.
However, the dynamic right-winger quickly justified that investment with five goals and two assists in just 15 matches.
Those vital contributions helped secure European qualification for Bournemouth for the first time in their history.