Liverpool are facing a pivotal summer of change in their attacking ranks, with club legend Graeme Souness delivering a stark verdict on Mohamed Salah’s future at Anfield.
The Egyptian forward, who turned 33 earlier this season, has endured his least productive campaign since joining the club in 2017. After helping fire Liverpool to the Premier League title in 2024/25 under Arne Slot — where he delivered a record-breaking haul of goals and assists — Salah’s output has dropped dramatically. Reports indicate he has managed around 10 goals and nine assists across all competitions this term, a sharp contrast to previous seasons where he routinely exceeded 40 goal contributions by this stage.
Souness, a former Liverpool captain, player and manager, did not mince his words in a recent interview. The 72-year-old watched Salah closely from the first game of the season and concluded that the forward’s best days are behind him. “I think Salah is the former,” Souness told the Daily Mail, suggesting it is time for the club and player to part ways at the end of the campaign to avoid tarnishing a glittering legacy. He argued that Salah appears to have lost the explosive edge that defined his peak years, and that persisting could hinder Liverpool’s progression.
The comments come amid a broader sense of transition at Anfield. Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, have struggled for consistency in 2025/26, sitting outside the top four in some standings and showing vulnerabilities in wide attacking areas. Salah has at times looked isolated in Slot’s system, with reduced touches in dangerous positions, lower dribbling success and diminished explosiveness. While he has shown occasional flashes — including recent contributions in the Champions League — the overall decline has been evident, prompting intense scrutiny.
A Busy Summer of Winger Activity
Compounding the situation, Liverpool are gearing up for significant movement in the winger and wide-forward department. Multiple reports suggest the club could see a net overhaul involving sales and signings, with some outlets framing it as preparation for up to five related transfers (typically interpreted as two incoming wingers and three outgoing wide or attacking players).
Federico Chiesa, signed as a versatile wide option, is widely expected to depart. Salah’s own future remains uncertain despite a lucrative two-year contract extension signed last summer. He has until the coming weeks to decide on his next step, with interest reportedly lingering from the Saudi Pro League and potential moves to MLS or elsewhere. Sources indicate Liverpool would listen to offers rather than let him run down his deal into 2027.
On the incoming side, the Reds have been linked with several high-profile targets to inject fresh energy and adapt to Slot’s tactical demands. Names frequently mentioned include:
- Michael Olise (Bayern Munich) — Scouts have reportedly been unanimous in their admiration, though any deal would be extremely challenging and expensive given his status at the German champions.
- Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig) — A young, dynamic talent who has impressed in the Bundesliga and is seen as a strong, realistic option to replace Salah’s output on the right.
- Other possibilities such as Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao, with a significant release clause), Bradley Barcola (PSG), or even Premier League-based players like Anthony Gordon.
Additional names like Crysencio Summerville or Yankuba Minteh have also surfaced in scouting discussions. The club recognises the need for “fresh legs” and greater consistency from the flanks, especially with Cody Gakpo also failing to hit expected levels on the left and youth options like Rio Ngumoha not yet ready to shoulder major responsibility.
Salah’s Enduring Legacy
Regardless of how the coming months unfold, Mohamed Salah’s status as a Liverpool legend is secure. Since arriving from Roma, he has become one of the club’s greatest-ever players, delivering multiple titles, including the Champions League and recent Premier League success, along with countless iconic moments and individual awards.
A natural dip at 33 after years of carrying the attack is not uncommon among elite forwards. Some observers note that tactical adjustments, injuries, or team-wide issues may have played a role, and Salah has retained the public backing of manager Arne Slot in recent comments. However, the combination of form, age and contract situation has created the perfect storm for an emotional but potentially necessary farewell.
As the 2025/26 season enters its final stretch, with Liverpool still competing in the Champions League and domestic cups, the next few results — and Salah’s personal decision — could dictate whether he bows out on a high or sees his Anfield chapter close amid frustration. For a club built on evolution, the summer promises to be transformative in the wide areas, whether Salah stays for one final campaign or begins a new adventure elsewhere.
This is classic end-of-season transfer speculation, but the underlying need for refreshment in attack appears genuine. Liverpool fans will be watching closely as the club balances nostalgia with ambition.
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