Liverpool’s bosses have reportedly settled on their “ideal” long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah, although signing him could be far from straightforward.Salah is under contract at Anfield until June 2027, but with the iconic forward set to turn 35 that same month, FSG are already considering who could eventually take over his role and influence on Merseyside.
One name that has been repeatedly linked in recent months is Michael Olise. Journalist Lewis Steele has previously highlighted the Bayern Munich attacker as a player to keep an eye on in Liverpool’s transfer plans this year.
According to TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey, Liverpool’s decision-makers are said to be “unanimous” in believing that Olise is the closest possible fit to becoming Salah’s successor. They have reportedly been impressed by the 24-year-old’s mix of creativity, productivity in front of goal, and tactical awareness.
Although players such as Yan Diomande, Nico Williams, Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola have also been mentioned as options, Olise is viewed as Liverpool’s top priority for the right-wing role. However, persuading Bayern to let him go could be extremely difficult.
Sources close to the Frenchman claim he is not in a hurry to return to the Premier League, while Bayern are also believed to be planning fresh contract talks, despite Olise already being tied to the club until 2029.
Liverpool’s interest is easy to understand when looking at his numbers this season, with Olise recording 13 goals and 25 assists in 34 appearances. His underlying stats also reportedly show how dangerous he has been compared to other Bundesliga players in the same position.
Because of his impact, Bayern are said to be unwilling to entertain offers unless they reach around £120m. It remains unclear whether Liverpool would be willing or able to meet that kind of fee in the summer.
Champions League qualification could strengthen Liverpool’s position, both financially and in terms of convincing Olise that a move to Anfield would be worthwhile.
Right now, a deal for the 24-year-old looks difficult, but FSG may feel it’s worth aiming high when planning for life after Salah. The situation could become more urgent this summer if Liverpool receive a huge offer for the Egyptian as he enters the final year of his deal — though the hope is that fans will still get as much time as possible from the legendary winger before that day arrives.
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