Liverpool steps up Mohamed Salah replacement plan as transfer 'demand' made

star is 'frustrated' by the .

Back in 2023, West Ham pulled off a coup by bringing Kudus to the Premier League for a reported $49m (£38m) from Ajax, which saw the Ghanaian winger swap Amsterdam for London. However, a year on from his move, the 24-year-old is reportedly fuming about West Ham's lack of progress on the pitch - which could see look to swoop.

Julen Lopetegui's side currently sit 15th in the Premier League, having won just two of their opening eight games in the top flight. Last time out, they were defeated 4-1 by Spurs.

While Kudus scored, he was also sent off, meaning he will miss the Hammers next three games against Manchester United, Nottingham Forest and Everton. And with how poorly things are going, Kudus is said to be open to leaving West Ham.

report Kudus' representatives have reached out to Liverpool over a potential move to Anfield in the future. With Liverpool's current first choice right-winger, Mohamed Salah, out of contract at the end of the season, Kudus could be the perfect replacement for the Egyptian.

The Ghanian is versatile, and can play in multiple positions. Additionally, he knows current Liverpool coach John Heitinga, who was previously on David Moyes' West Ham staff. And with him having played in the Eredivisie too, Arne Slot will also know all about the ex-Ajax star.

"I felt very good under Heitinga," Kudus said previously of working with the Dutchman who joined Liverpool this past summer. "He is the best trainer I had at Ajax. Apart from the training, I have a lot of respect for him in terms of standards and values. Personally, I would have loved to work with him longer."

However, a potential stumbling block could be Kudus' $110m (£85m) release fee clause. The West Ham star's contract expires in 2028, meaning the Hammers are under no pressure to sell up. But should their fortunes on the pitch not change, there is a real chance West Ham could be left having to deal with an unhappy player who will want out.

Liverpool.com says: "If Kudus is available this coming summer, Liverpool must seriously consider signing him. The Ghanaian has an excellent left-foot, and could absolutely go on to become an even better player in a better team, which Liverpool undoubtedly are compared to West Ham. It would be a costly move, but one Liverpool must consider, especially with Salah out of contract."