Liverpool identify 22-year-old Algerian forward as viable replacement for Mohamed Salah: Reports

Liverpool are reportedly interested in snapping up Feyenoord forward Anis Hadj Moussa, who has been identified as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.

Hadj Moussa, 22, has emerged as a crucial squad member for Feyenoord since arriving from Belgian outfit Patro Eisden for around £1.5 million earlier this July. He has registered four goals in 14 games across competitions, including four starts, for the 16-time Eredivisie champions.

Now, according to French weekly magazine La Gazette de Funnec, Liverpool have earmarked the left-footed attacker as a successor to Salah. Reds head coach Arne Slot was keen to sign the Algerian player during his time at Feyenoord.

Last week, current Feyenoord manager Brian Priske lavished praise on Hadj Moussa after the player netted a goal in a 3-3 UEFA Champions League draw at Manchester City. He said (h/t Flashscore):

"He is just as important to my team as the others. Individually, you have to bring your quality and perform every time you get minutes, whether you're starting or coming on as a substitute. And for Anis, he has improved for us recently. He’s shown great discipline, a strong mindset, and has been working hard for the team, while also becoming more effective in the attacking phase."

Shedding light on how the winger has grown, Priske elaborated:

"He's not always relying on tricks, but making the right decisions, which is crucial when playing in the Champions League, where opportunities can be limited. That's why I have the utmost respect for him... he's adjusted his approach and we now know the offensive qualities he brings."

Last season, Hadj Moussa turned a lot of heads during his loan spell at Eredivisie club Vitesse Arnhem. The former RC Lens youth player scored two goals and laid out as many assists in 15 appearances across all competitions for Vitesse.

Mohamed Salah opines on Liverpool future

Earlier on Sunday (December 1), Mohamed Salah helped Liverpool record a 2-0 home league win against Manchester City at Anfield. He assisted Cody Gakpo's 12th-minute opener before scoring a penalty in the 78th minute of the clash.

During a post-game chat with Sky Sports, Salah was asked if he is enjoying his performances even more with his future at the Reds currently up in the air. He replied (h/t liverpoolfc.com):

"Of course. Honestly, that was in my head, that until now this is the last City game I play for Liverpool so I'm just going to enjoy it. The atmosphere was incredible, I'm enjoying every second here. Hopefully, we just win the league and see what will happen."

So far this campaign, the former Chelsea winger has contributed 13 goals and 11 assists in 20 matches across all competitions for Arne Slot's side.