Steven Gerrard Recommends Shock Re-Signing as Mo Salah Replacement for Liverpool

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has recommended a strategic double deal to address the void left by Mohamed Salah, who is set to depart the club this summer. Speaking to TNT Sports, Gerrard suggested the acquisition of Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise alongside the shock re-signing of Luis Diaz.

The recommendations come as Liverpool prepares for a significant squad overhaul following a poor 2025/26 campaign. The club struggled to defend its Premier League title during the season, leading to an urgent need for reinforcements in the attacking wide areas.

Replacing Mohamed Salah

The departure of Mohamed Salah marks the end of a nine-year tenure at Anfield. Salah confirmed his exit on March 25, 2026, via a video message to supporters. To facilitate the move, Liverpool agreed to waive the final year of his contract, allowing the Egyptian forward to leave on a free transfer.

Given Salah’s role as the primary source of goals since 2017, Gerrard has emphasized the need for a box office replacement. He advised the club to target one of the top three options globally to maintain their competitive edge.

Gerrard specifically highlighted Michael Olise as a dream signing. He praised the Bayern Munich standout’s versatility and technical ability, noting that Olise possesses a right foot that is just as strong as his left.

When you are a full-back playing up against a winger, they normally have a weak side and you show them one way or another, depending what foot they are. The problem with him is he can go both ways, his right foot is just as strong as his left. You really want to show him on his right foot because that’s probably his weaker side, but you see some of the assists he’s getting, some of the finishes with his right foot. If you leave him in one-versus-one situations, you are in major trouble.

Steven Gerrard to TNT Sports

When asked if he would want Olise at Liverpool, Gerrard responded, All day long.

Transfer Targets and Squad Management

While Olise is viewed as the ideal target, reports indicate that Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig is currently a leading target for the club. The pursuit of wide players is now the priority, as other defensive concerns have been mitigated.

Liverpool has reportedly reached a broad agreement with Ibrahima Konate over a new contract. This agreement has reduced the immediate pressure to sign additional centre-back reinforcements this summer.

In addition to the pursuit of Olise, Gerrard expressed his desire to see Luis Diaz return to Liverpool. This would form part of a statement double deal intended to revitalize the Reds’ attacking options after their disappointing title defense.

Context of the 2025/26 Season

The urgency for these signings is underscored by Liverpool’s recent form. The 2025/26 campaign was characterized as really poor, with the team failing to mount a strong defense of their Premier League crown.

This lack of consistency was further highlighted by Gerrard’s recent criticisms of the squad’s mentality. He specifically criticized Virgil van Dijk for admitting that the team gave up during a match against Manchester City.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Liverpool faces the challenge of replacing a generational talent in Salah while attempting to stabilize a squad that struggled to maintain its dominance in the English top flight.