Leonardo Swap Move Floated as Liverpool Plot Salah Exit; Napoli Circle Menacingly

The summer window could see a curious carousel of talent revolving around Mohamed Salah's Anfield exit, with reports suggesting a swap arrangement involving Al-Hilal's Marcos Leonardo as one possible solution for Liverpool's attacking refresh.

The Reds confirmed last week that Salah will depart at season's end following nine years on Merseyside, giving supporters a final opportunity to celebrate the Egyptian icon before he moves on. It's a decision the club made public deliberately, ensuring the farewell carries proper weight.

Transfer planning for this moment has been underway for some time, with Saudi Pro League overtures having circulated for years. Yet Salah's representative, Ramy Abbas Issa, has thrown cold water on speculation about his client's next destination, tweeting: "We do not know where Mohamed will play next season. This also means that no one else knows."

Into this vacuum steps Leonardo, the Brazilian forward plying his trade in the Saudi capital. The Reds are reportedly keen to orchestrate a deal that would see the 27-year-old head to Anfield whilst Salah potentially travels in the opposite direction. It's a neat bit of business in theory—one departing superstar offset by an incoming talent.

Liverpool's attacking contingent has been a mixed bag this season. Hugo Ekitike has impressed considerably, though fellow arrival Alexander Isak has been hamstrung by injury woes. Leonardo's versatility—capable of operating as both a central striker and false nine—could provide the creative fluidity Anfield craves.

According to reports, Liverpool view their Champions League pedigree and historical affinity with Brazilian talent as compelling selling points. The club's "trophy-guaranteed project" is positioned as a major draw, alongside the chance to join an institution with deep roots in South American football.

Yet the path to signing Salah remains genuinely open. Napoli have emerged as a "serious competitor" for his signature, with Spanish reports suggesting the Serie A outfit could tempt the forward back to Italian football. The Diego Armando Maradona Stadium project appears sufficiently attractive to warrant genuine consideration.

Across the Atlantic, San Diego FC have also registered their interest. Owner Mohamed Mansour spoke to talkSPORT, discussing the appeal of landing Salah without committing to anything concrete. "Any team around the world would be interested," Mansour acknowledged, praising Salah's professionalism and enduring athleticism. "He's done amazing things for Liverpool. If you go anywhere in the Middle East, not even Egypt, you'll see Liverpool shirts with Mo Salah on the back. He's world class."

Mansour, an Egyptian-born British citizen, emphasised that sporting decisions rest with director Tyler Heaps and coach Mikey Varas, though he acknowledged the need to assess stylistic fit. The owner's personal connection to Egyptian heritage adds an intriguing dimension to San Diego's pursuit, but it remains one option among several for a player who has become a global icon.