Liverpool are already preparing for a future without Mohamed Salah, with the club set to lose their talisman at the end of the 2025/26 season. His confirmed departure marks the end of an era at Anfield, forcing the Reds to confront one of the most difficult challenges in modern football—replacing a player who has consistently delivered goals, assists, and match-winning moments at an elite level.
Naturally, speculation has intensified around who could fill that void. Among the names heavily linked is Jarrod Bowen of West Ham United. Bowen’s Premier League pedigree, consistency, and work rate make him an attractive option on paper. However, not everyone is convinced he represents the transformative signing Liverpool need.
Club legend Steven Gerrard recently weighed in on the debate, offering a measured yet revealing perspective. While acknowledging Bowen’s quality, Gerrard questioned whether the England international possesses the same ceiling as Salah. Replacing a player of Salah’s magnitude requires more than steady output—it demands someone capable of taking over games and producing moments of brilliance under pressure.
That’s where another, perhaps less obvious, candidate enters the conversation: Crysencio Summerville. Also currently at West Ham, Summerville has quietly built a reputation as one of the most exciting attacking talents in the league, despite operating in a team that has struggled for consistency.
Gerrard’s praise for the Dutch winger was notably stronger. He highlighted Summerville’s ability in one-on-one situations, his hunger, and his steady improvement throughout the season. These attributes align closely with what Liverpool typically look for in attacking players—directness, pace, and the confidence to isolate defenders and create opportunities out of nothing.
Statistically, the comparison between the candidates offers an interesting perspective. Salah, even by his high standards, has enjoyed a relatively modest season, registering 10 goals and nine assists in 34 appearances. Bowen has matched the goal tally and added seven assists, demonstrating reliability and consistency. Meanwhile, Summerville has contributed seven goals and four assists in 27 matches, operating largely from the left flank.
On the surface, Bowen appears the safer option—a proven Premier League performer who can slot into the system with minimal adaptation. However, Liverpool’s recruitment strategy in recent years suggests they are not always drawn to the obvious choice. Instead, they often target players with high ceilings and the potential to develop into world-class stars within their system.
Summerville fits that profile. His performances in a struggling West Ham side hint at untapped potential that could be unlocked in a more structured and ambitious environment like Liverpool. Surrounded by higher-quality teammates and given the platform to express himself, he could evolve into a far more impactful player.
Another key factor is tactical fit. Under their current setup, Liverpool prioritize fluid attacking movements, quick transitions, and players who can operate effectively in wide areas while also cutting inside to create goal-scoring opportunities. Summerville’s style appears tailor-made for such a system, offering the kind of unpredictability that can unsettle even the most organized defenses.
Ultimately, Liverpool’s decision will go beyond simple statistics or short-term impact. Replacing Salah is not just about filling a position—it’s about redefining the team’s attacking identity for the next phase. Salah leaves behind a legacy that includes not only goals but also leadership, consistency, and a unique ability to deliver in decisive moments.
The club now faces a pivotal choice: opt for the reliability of a player like Bowen or take a calculated risk on the explosive potential of Summerville. With voices like Steven Gerrard’s influencing the conversation, it’s clear that Liverpool are carefully weighing their options.
As the summer transfer window approaches, one thing is certain—Liverpool’s next move will shape the direction of the club for years to come.
