'Clear choice': FSG now told 'world class' player is the best option to replace Mo Salah at Liverpool

Frank Leboeuf, the former Chelsea defender, has emphatically endorsed Michael Olise as the clear choice for Liverpool to replace Mohamed Salah, labeling the Bayern Munich winger as a "world class" talent perfectly suited to fill the Egyptian's shoes[1][2][3].

Salah, now 33 and under contract until 2027, has experienced a sharp decline this season. In 16 Premier League appearances, he has managed just four goals, a far cry from his previous eight seasons where he consistently topped Liverpool's scoring charts with 20+ league goals. Across all competitions, his tally stands at six goals, with new signing Hugo Ekitike emerging as the team's leading scorer with 15[2]. Speculation mounts that Saudi Pro League clubs could lure him away, prompting Liverpool's hierarchy—led by FSG—to scout successors[2][4].

Olise, who dazzled at Crystal Palace before joining Bayern in 2024, has thrived in Germany, netting 33 goals in 87 appearances. This season alone, he boasts 13 goals and 20 assists in 33 games, leading the Champions League in completed dribbles[2][6][7]. Liverpool's recruitment team views him as the ideal heir, praising his creativity, pace, dribbling, and goal threat—qualities mirroring Salah's prime[3][5]. Scouts are unanimous: Olise is the closest match to sustain Liverpool's attacking potency[3].

However, challenges abound. Bayern, with Olise tied until 2029, plans contract extension talks and firmly rejects overtures. Liverpool is prepared for a record-breaking bid—up to €200m (£174m), potentially the second-largest transfer ever—to force negotiations[1][4][7]. Alternatives like RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, Athletic's Nico Williams, PSG's Désiré Doué, and Bradley Barcola are considered, but Olise remains the top target[5][8].

Leboeuf argues that despite the cost, Olise's "explosive" profile and Premier League pedigree make him indispensable for Arne Slot's side. As Salah's era wanes, Liverpool's bold pursuit signals a new chapter at Anfield[1][3][7].

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