Who can replace Mohamed Salah? Top five contenders to fill Liverpool’s biggest void
With Mohamed Salah set to leave Liverpool at the end of the 2025/26 season, replacing him is arguably the toughest rebuilding task the club have faced in the modern era.
The reality is no single player can replicate him exactly, but Liverpool can target players who match his impact through pace, creativity, and goal threat.
Here, Sports News Blitz writer Joshua Topping takes a look at the top five contenders who could step into that role.
Yan Diomande
One of Europe’s fastest-rising talents, Diomande is widely viewed as Liverpool’s primary target.
The RB Leipzig winger ranks among the best dribblers in Europe.
At just 19, he offers explosive pace, direct attacking play, and versatility across the front line.
Liverpool see him as a long-term project who could evolve into a superstar rather than an instant Salah clone.
His ability to beat defenders consistently makes him a natural stylistic successor.
Michael Olise
Currently shining at Bayern Munich, Olise has emerged as one of the most productive wide players in Europe, contributing heavily with both goals and assists.
A left-footed right winger, just like Salah, he fits Liverpool’s system perfectly.
Olise combines elite creativity with technical brilliance, often acting as both a scorer and playmaker.
His profile makes him arguably the closest tactical replacement, though his availability could be a major obstacle.
Bradley Barcola
The PSG winger is another exciting option, known for his speed, flair, and attacking intelligence.
Barcola has been highlighted as a player capable of bringing dynamism and unpredictability to Liverpool’s attack.
While he is less of a proven goal scorer than Salah, his ceiling is extremely high.
He thrives in one-on-one situations and would add a new dimension to Liverpool’s frontline, especially in transition-heavy systems.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: FIFA World Cup 2026 news: What England’s 1-1 draw with Uruguay told us about potential call-ups
Anthony Gordon
A Premier League-proven option, Gordon has developed into one of England’s most dangerous wide forwards.
His pace, pressing ability, and work rate align perfectly with Liverpool’s high-intensity style.
Gordon brings reliability and experience in English football, reducing adaptation risk compared to overseas signings.
Yankuba Minteh
Minteh represents a more developmental option but comes with strong upside.
Having previously worked under Liverpool manager Arne Slot, he already understands the tactical demands required.
Still raw, Minteh would need time to refine his finishing and decision-making.
However, his pace, directness, and familiarity with the system could make him a smart, long-term investment.
Final thoughts
Replacing Mohamed Salah is not about finding a like-for-like successor, it is about rebuilding the attack in a new way.
Players like Diomande and Olise offer star potential, while Gordon provides immediate impact and Minteh represents future growth.
Liverpool’s best move may not be choosing just one, but combining profiles to collectively replace the output of a true legend.
READ NEXT: NFL news: John Lynch rejects substation theory, claims San Francisco 49ers are in a ‘safe place’
