Andoni Iraola eyes €30 million Otorbi to fill Salah’s void

Andoni Iraola faces a pressing need to fill the right‑wing void left by Mohamed Salah, who mutually terminated his contract at the end of last season. Liverpool saved roughly £20 million in wages but have yet to secure a proper successor.

A lingering right‑wing void

The Egyptian King left Liverpool with only a year remaining on his contract, and the Reds received no transfer fee. Although the club saved around £20 million in wages, the lack of a right‑wing replacement remains stark. Recent arrivals Bradley Barcola and Victor Munoz are natural left‑wingers, leaving the right flank exposed.

Iraola’s system relies on pace and directness, qualities Salah embodied. Fans have welcomed the suggestion that the manager has identified his own version of the Egyptian star. The prospect of a home‑grown solution could prove music to Liverpool supporters.

Otorbi’s €30 million release clause

David Otorbi, a 19‑year‑old Spaniard from Valencia, has already contributed to numerous goals and is among the league’s quickest players. He operates as a natural right‑winger and is right‑footed, offering a play‑style reminiscent of Salah without being a carbon copy. Liverpool are prepared to trigger his €30 million release clause.

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Valencia, however, appear set to extend his contract and could raise the clause to €60 million, meaning the Reds must act swiftly. The Spanish side is expected to hold out for the higher fee, putting pressure on Liverpool’s budget. A repeat of last season’s poor campaign could limit the club’s financial flexibility.

Current attacking options such as Cody Gakpo, Alexander Isak and the returning Bradley Barcola are performing well, yet Iraola and sporting director Julian Ward aim to future‑proof the line‑up. Securing Otorbi would provide a long‑term solution on the right flank. The move aligns with the club’s broader rebuilding strategy.

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If Liverpool fail to secure the youngster before the clause escalates, the gap left by Salah may persist into another season. The financial saving from Salah’s wage termination offers limited leeway against a potential €60 million outlay. Time is now the decisive factor for the Reds.