Exclusive: Liverpool work on deal to sign 'next Bukayo Saka'

Liverpool are working on a deal to sign highly-rated KAA Gent forward Momodou Sonko, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O'Rourke revealed that the Reds are looking to sign young talent in the transfer market to strengthen their squad for the future.

Sonko, 19, has been likened to Arsenal star Bukayo Saka due to his his style of play, as a left-footed right-winger with quick feet, great ability on the ball and the capacity to score and create goals.

However, he is still viewed as a young prospect for the future and has yet to fully hone his skills, and would be brought in to help develop at Anfield rather than to impact the starting XI.

So far this season for Gent, the Sweden international has scored two goals in 14 appearances across all competitions, but has started just seven of those games.

However, Liverpool are keen to strengthen their right-wing position amid uncertainty over the future of Mohamed Salah and his contract situation.

Liverpool plotting move to sign Gent star Momodou Sonko

Following the win against Southampton in November, Salah ramped up the pressure on Liverpool as he revealed he is currently “more out than in” and has not been offered a new deal.

As a result, the recruitment team have already begun searching for potential new signings in his position to minimise the impact of his departure.

Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 18 November that Liverpool are working on a box-office replacement for the Egyptian should he leave the club at the end of the season.

However, there is also a feeling at Anfield that they want to strengthen their squad for the future as well, with Sonko on their list of younger options.

Arne Slot already has the likes of Conor Bradley, Harvey Elliott and Jarell Quansah, all 21 years old, in his squad and the younger contingent in the dressing room could soon get another addition.

Sonko is highly rated in Belgium and already has four senior Sweden caps to his name, and there is a growing feeling that the jump up to Premier League football could be the next step in his development.

In other news, a new update has emerged on Liverpool’s interest in Antoine Semenyo.

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