Salah has probably been the finest player in the world over the last 12 months, scoring 29 goals and assisting 11 times in 41 games and guiding Egypt to the Africa Cup of Nations final.
The Egyptian sensation was nominated for the Ballon d’Or earlier this year, but came in seventh place behind Lionel Messi, who won it for the record-extending seventh time.
Salah’s status as one of the best players on the planet is undeniable, according to Neville, but he would prefer to see Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland walk through the doors at Old Trafford.
Salah ‘was at a level that was the best in the world at moments earlier in the season, and he still may be,’ Neville told Sky Sports.
‘However, if you told me I could only sign one player for Manchester United tomorrow, I’d choose Mbappe or Haaland over Salah.’
‘It’s not a Liverpool thing; I think Salah is incredible, but I just think Mbappe has the potential to be extraordinary.’
‘There’s no doubt Salah is a world-class player, but Mbappe has something special, that edge, that special quality that might turn him into one of the all-time greats.’
Mbappe, who is only 23, has already established himself as one of the best and most exciting players in the world, scoring 156 goals in 205 games for Paris Saint-Germain.
Mbappe also played a key role in France’s 2018 World Cup victory, and Neville has compared him to Arsenal veteran Thierry Henry and Manchester United legend Cristiano Ronaldo.
Mbappe is ‘simply amazing’ in terms of excitement, adrenaline, and speed, according to Neville. ‘He reminds me of Thierry Henry, but he also has a bit of Cristiano Ronaldo about him – ruthlessness.’
‘He has to win the Champions League with PSG this season; it would be the pinnacle of his career.’ Mbappe’s highest glory would be the Champions League and another World Cup if he were to succeed Ronaldo and Messi.
‘I’m not saying he needs to win those trophies to be the best player in the world, but playing for the teams that win either of those medals solidifies your standing. Mbappe understands that excellence comes with silverware and honors.
‘Mbappe’s Champions League goal against Real Madrid at the last minute was incredible. Great players win tournaments, huge competitions, and have a lot of influence in big competitions. Mbappe has finally reached that level.’
Meanwhile, after blossoming at Borussia Dortmund, Norway striker Haaland has piqued the interest of some of Europe’s top clubs.
‘Haaland’s personality appeals to me,’ Neville added. ‘I enjoy that he doesn’t give a damn what other people think.’
‘He reminds me a little of Eric Cantona; he’s the modern-day version, if you will.’ I see why people call him arrogant, but he has the capacity to back it up.
‘You can’t teach anything like that.’ Football requires guys with his personality. We’re looking for gamers who have a distinct personality. We want a Haaland for every angel, a young person who isn’t faultless at everything.
‘We want competent, well-behaved employees, but we also want people with personality and character, as well as those who are willing to challenge the status quo,’ says Haaland.
