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Liverpool have reportedly shifted their focus toward a more affordable option to replace Mohamed Salah.

In what appears to mark a change in their summer recruitment strategy at Anfield, the Merseyside club is said to be targeting Hoffenheim’s emerging winger Bazoumana Toure.

As per a report from German publication BILD, the Reds now view the 20-year-old Ivorian as a more sensible and cost-effective option compared to their long-standing priority target, Yan Diomande.

This strategic adjustment comes at a time of financial and sporting uncertainty for Liverpool. Although Diomande has frequently been mentioned as Salah’s successor, the RB Leipzig star’s projected €100 million (£87 million) transfer fee is reportedly beyond what Liverpool’s board is willing to sanction.

The club’s heavy spending during last summer’s window has left their current transfer budget significantly reduced. Liverpool’s ability to pursue high-cost players like Diomande has also been weakened by an unpredictable conclusion to the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

Last season, under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool captured the Premier League title and were able to attract top European talent. However, this season’s struggles have diminished their leverage in transfer negotiations.

Currently, the Reds are in a tight five-way battle for one of the remaining Champions League qualification places. Without the guarantee of top-tier European football next season, Liverpool’s attractiveness to potential signings has inevitably taken a hit.

Moreover, without assured Champions League income, committing to a nine-figure deal for Diomande would be a major financial risk, even considering the savings from Salah’s possible departure and his substantial wages leaving the books.

Liverpool’s cautious financial stance has been compounded by their likely Champions League exit. Following a 2-0 first-leg defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday night, Arne Slot’s team faces a daunting challenge to reach the semi-finals.

Failing to progress to the final four would cost Liverpool around £13 million in performance bonuses, in addition to millions more in broadcast-related ‘Value Pillar’ payments.

Reaching the final would have guaranteed an extra £16 million, while winning the tournament would add another £5.5 million. The potential loss of a total £35 million windfall from the latter stages of the competition has a direct bearing on their summer transfer finances.

In contrast to Diomande’s estimated €100 million valuation, Bazoumana Toure presents a much more affordable opportunity.

Currently valued at around €35 million according to Transfermarkt, Toure has made a remarkable impact in his debut Bundesliga season, contributing two goals and eight assists for Hoffenheim.

The 20-year-old winger possesses the same explosive pace and attacking directness as Diomande but at a fraction of the cost. By pursuing Toure, Liverpool could add a promising young forward to their attacking ranks while maintaining financial prudence in the face of uncertain Champions League qualification.