Liverpool have turned their attention to AFC Bournemouth winger Rayan as they search for a marquee signing to fill Mohamed Salah’s void.
The Reds have already brought in Victor Muñoz from Osasuna, but the youngster is not considered capable of replacing Salah on his own.
Liverpool initially pursued Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig, but that deal collapsed after the player moved closer to joining Real Madrid instead.
Attention then shifted to Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, with Liverpool opening talks and willing to spend around £86m to secure the deal.
However, PSG are demanding up to £145m for Barcola, whose contract runs until 2028, leaving a significant gap between the two clubs’ valuations.
With the Barcola deal proving difficult, manager Andoni Iraola’s side have identified Rayan of AFC Bournemouth as a serious alternative target.
The Brazilian winger previously played under Iraola at Vitality Stadium, meaning he is already familiar with the manager’s tactical system and demands.
Like Salah, Rayan is a left-footed right-winger, making him a more natural like-for-like replacement than the naturally left-sided Barcola would be.
Rayan joined Bournemouth from Vasco Da Gama in January following Antoine Semenyo’s departure to Manchester City, signing a contract until 2031 with a £130m release clause.
The 20-year-old, who stands at 6ft 1in, wasted no time adjusting to Premier League football, registering seven goal contributions in 15 league matches last campaign.
His performances also helped Bournemouth secure a spot in next season’s Europa League, highlighting the immediate impact he had at the club.
Liverpool are also monitoring Brighton and Hove Albion forward Yankuba Minteh as another potential alternative as they look to strengthen their attacking options.
Reports indicate that Liverpool have begun exploring concrete approaches for Rayan, though whether a formal bid will be submitted this summer remains to be seen.