Steven Gerrard has identified Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise as his ideal candidate to replace Mohamed Salah at Liverpool. Salah confirmed last month that he would end his nine-year stint at Anfield, leaving on a free transfer this summer.
The 33-year-old Egyptian has been a key figure for the Reds, and his departure leaves a significant gap on the right wing. Reports in France suggest Liverpool have placed Olise at the top of their shortlist, with Arsenal also interested in the 24-year-old.
Olise, who joined Bayern from Crystal Palace for £50 million in 2024, has impressed this season with 16 goals and 28 assists in 40 appearances. Speaking to talkSPORT Breakfast, Gerrard said: 'I think the concern, if you’re trying to replace Salah, in terms of like-for-like, I think there are very few out there that you can go and grab. Olise would be one, I would say, but I don’t think he’d be available.'
Gerrard noted Liverpool's strong track record of replacing top players, citing the transitions from Sadio Mané to Luis Díaz and from Luis Suárez to other options. He added: 'Liverpool have got a fantastic record of replacing top players that have gone before... one thing is for certain, they have to try and replace some kind of goal involvement.'
However, Bayern officials have dismissed speculation about Olise's departure. Honorary president Uli Hoeness said: 'If that’s true… I don’t believe it is... We won’t be contributing to them playing better next year.' Sporting director Max Eberl added: 'Michael has a contract with us until 2029, without a release clause – we’re relaxed.'
