Journalist: Liverpool ‘Definitely Like’ £84m Forward Ahead of Potential 2026 Move | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Forward Planning and the Olise Question

Liverpool’s Premier League triumph under Arne Slot has ushered in a fresh chapter for the club. With Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk signing new deals until 2027, there is a sense of security around two of the most influential figures of the modern era. However, conversations about succession planning are inevitable, and one name continues to surface with increasing regularity: Michael Olise, who is valued at around £84m by Bayern Munich.

Credit must go to David Lynch, who in conversation with Dave Davis for Anfield Index, explored Liverpool’s potential long-term thinking. The discussion offered clarity, not only on Salah’s future, but also on how the club might approach a changing landscape in attack.

Olise as a Natural Successor

In Lynch’s words, “He’s definitely a player that Liverpool like and I don’t doubt for a second that Liverpool would be in the mix for a player like Olise.” That acknowledgement reflects the winger’s growing reputation, particularly after consistent displays in the Premier League during his time at Crystal Palace.

Olise combines flair with decisiveness, and his ability to drift between lines has drawn comparisons with some of the league’s best creative talents. His age profile also makes sense for Liverpool’s recruitment strategy, which typically focuses on players entering their peak years. As Lynch pointed out, “Olise has Premier League experience, he’s an ideal age and the fact that he is absolutely brilliant makes him a really good fit for them.”

Salah’s Legacy and Liverpool’s Reality

There is no escaping the fact that Salah’s story at Liverpool will not last forever. His most recent contract secures him until 2027, but Lynch was candid in his assessment: “Liverpool have to front up to the fact that Mo Salah is not going to be here forever and I’d be amazed if this latest contract isn’t his last, as sad as it is to say that.”

That recognition of reality underlines why the club’s scouting department will already be considering options. The idea is not to replace Salah in a like-for-like sense, because such a task is almost impossible. Instead, Liverpool will be thinking about players who can refresh the attack, ensuring that the right-wing role remains decisive for years to come.

Recruitment Strategy and Timing

While excitement around Olise is understandable, Lynch offered a measured reminder: “It’s too far out to make any guarantees about that but there’s no question that he is a player on Liverpool’s radar and they’ve potentially got a vacancy coming up on that right-wing that would suit him down to the ground.”

Liverpool have developed a reputation for being strategic, calculated and patient in the market. Slot will be mindful of continuity, and the recruitment team will look at timing as much as profile. Olise may well emerge as a leading candidate, but the club will not be rushed into decisions.

Looking Ahead

What is clear is that Liverpool have earned the right to think long term. With their current squad retaining both stability and quality, there is no urgency, only planning. Olise represents one potential future, and his qualities align with what the club often prioritises. If and when Salah’s Anfield journey comes to a close, Liverpool will want to ensure the next chapter feels just as compelling.