Steven Gerrard Backs Liverpool's Pursuit of 'Box Office' Winger to Succeed Mohamed Salah
Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard has publicly endorsed the club's need to acquire a 'box office' winger this summer, specifically highlighting Bayern Munich's Michael Olise as an ideal candidate to fill the void left by Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian superstar has confirmed his departure from Anfield at the season's end, concluding a remarkable nine-year tenure on Merseyside that saw him become the club's third all-time top goalscorer.
Salah's Exit Sparks Urgent Search for Replacement
With Salah's influence diminishing this campaign, Liverpool faces a daunting challenge in replacing a player of his caliber. Recent reports from France indicate that Olise has emerged as an early target for the Reds, though Arsenal and Chelsea are also keen admirers of the former Crystal Palace talent. Since his move to Bayern Munich in 2024, Olise has evolved into one of Europe's premier wide players, forming a formidable attacking trio with Harry Kane and Luis Diaz—the latter sold by Liverpool last summer.
Gerrard and Hargreaves Advocate for Olise Move
Despite Bayern's reluctance to part with the French international, former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has urged Liverpool to test the waters. 'If you're Liverpool you have to go for someone ready, tried and tested. And for me that would be Olise. Someone of that calibre,' Hargreaves stated in an interview with TNT Sport. When Gerrard questioned whether Bayern would sell, Hargreaves added, 'If you don't ask you don't get. But if you're talking Olise on the right hand side, that is box office.'
Gerrard echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Liverpool must secure a top-tier replacement. 'I'd be very surprised if they don't be someone who is box office. Or you're not replacing them. They have to be top end, top three or four in the world to replace Mo Salah. Because that is where he has been.'
Alternative Targets and Gerrard's Assessment
While West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen has been suggested as a potential Salah successor, Gerrard expressed doubts about his suitability. 'I really like Bowen but I don't think he's Salah's level to replace him,' he remarked. Instead, Gerrard praised Bowen's teammate Crysencio Summerville, who has impressed on the left flank this season. 'I'd take Summerville. I think he has got something different, for a team that has been struggling he has been a shining light and got better as the season has gone on.'
Gerrard concluded that Liverpool will likely seek 'one-on-one merchants' to bolster their attack, underscoring the critical nature of this summer's transfer window as the club navigates life after Salah.
