Desire Doué Among Names on Liverpool Shortlist to Replace Mohamed Salah

Liverpool's plans for life after Mohamed Salah have hit a snag, with Michael Olise ruled out as their top target. The Bayern Munich winger, seen by the Reds' recruitment team as the ideal heir to the Egyptian star due to his creativity, end-product, and tactical nous from the right flank, is now "untouchable" according to sources. Olise, who previously shone at Crystal Palace, has no desire to return to the Premier League soon and eyes a future move to Spain instead[1][3].

With Salah's contract running until 2027 but Saudi Pro League clubs pushing for an early exit—despite public insistence from Liverpool that he'll stay—the club is privately preparing alternatives. The 33-year-old's potential departure looms large, prompting extensive groundwork on successors[1][6].

Leading the shortlist is Desire Doué from Paris Saint-Germain, alongside Bradley Barcola (also PSG), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), and RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande. Diomande, a 19-year-old Ivory Coast sensation, stands out with nine goals and six assists in 24 appearances this season—outpacing any Liverpool player in Premier League contributions. His youth offers long-term value, potentially allowing him to learn from Salah if the veteran stays another year[1][3][4].

Doué has gained prominence, with reports of Liverpool eyeing a blockbuster £130m bid, signaling their intent to secure a high-caliber replacement amid FSG's proactive transfer strategy[5]. While Olise was the dream, these four exciting prospects keep Liverpool's attacking rebuild on track for summer 2026[2].

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