Michael Owen believes Liverpool should push to sign West Ham star Jarrod Bowen if the Hammers are relegated from the Premier League, identifying the England international as an ideal replacement for Mohamed Salah.

Salah is set to leave Anfield at the end of the season, bringing to an end a decorated nine-year spell. Having recently suffered a hamstring injury against Crystal Palace, it is expected the Egyptian will return in time to receive a proper send-off from the Liverpool fans. The Reds face Brentford in the final game of the season at Anfield on May 24.

Bowen’s future at West Ham rests on whether they remain in the top flight. The Hammers are a point adrift of safety and host Premier League leaders Arsenal on Sunday before a tricky trip to Newcastle United and a final-day clash with Leeds United.

Owen backs Bowen for Liverpool move

If West Ham were to climb out of danger, Bowen would likely stay, but a drop into the Championship would be expected to spell the end of his time at the club.

Speaking to talkSPORT, former Reds striker Owen was asked about the potential of Liverpool swooping into the sign the England international in that scenario

“How do you know?,” Owen replied. “I have said that to a couple of my mates the other day. I said, if I had one player.

“Now, obviously, Jarrod Bowen’s a legend of a player, West Ham, you know, adore the man, and rightly so. But, if West Ham went down, he would fit for me.

“I think he’s absolutely brilliant.

“I was lucky enough to do like a striking masterclass for a TV show we did last season with him, and I couldn’t believe it. Honestly, left foot, right foot, bang, bang, corners, pace. I mean, a real top finisher.

“I think he’s a brilliant player. I would be taking him to the World Cup, and, as I say, you know, I don’t want to upset West Ham fans, but if they went down, then he would be my idea of somebody to replace Salah.”