"If anyone was to replace Mohamed Salah" – Dietmar Hamann tips Liverpool and Manchester United to battle for 22-year-old Bundesliga star
Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has claimed that his former club and Manchester United should pursue Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise in the near future.
Olise, who joined his new club from Crystal Palace for around £51 million earlier in July this year, has opened the ongoing season on an excellent note. He has netted seven goals and provided three assists in 12 appearances across competitions for the Bundesliga giants.
During a recent chat with Flashscore, Hamann suggested that Olise could replace Mohamed Salah at Liverpool and hailed the left-footed attacker. He said (h/t Tribal Football):
"I'm very surprised no one picked him up in England, if anyone was to replace Mohamed Salah, it would be Michael Olise. He's a brilliant player, he can score goals and create. Bayern won't want to lose Olise, but I won't be surprised if teams like Liverpool or Manchester United offer a big fee for him."
When asked whether the 22-year-old winger could be compared to Bayern Munich legend Arjen Robben, Hamann responded:
"Michael Olise will need to stay for a few years to reach that level, but he does have the ability to become as good as Arjen Robben. He certainly has the ability."
With Salah's contract expiring next summer, Liverpool could launch a move to sign Olise in the near future. Manchester United, on the other hand, could do with a fine replacement for Antony on the right flank.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot backs Erik ten Hag to bounce back after Manchester United sacking
Earlier on Monday, Manchester United sacked Erik ten Hag following just four wins in 14 matches across competitions in the ongoing season.
Ahead of his team's EFL Cup last-16 tie at Brighton & Hove Albion, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was asked to opine on Ten Hag's recent dismissal. He replied (h/t Metro):
"Well, he's a Dutch manager so it makes it even harder for me and us as Dutch people. Obviously, your first thoughts are with the person, we know in this industry and in this job it can happen. I know him a little bit and I know how much work he puts in, so to get this news it is a pity for him."
Slot, who has won 11 of his 12 games as the Reds' boss, added:
"But we also know how well he did at Ajax and he won two trophies here, so we will see him in the near future at a big club again. But, at the moment, it's a – I wouldn't say tragedy – but it's a big disappointment for him, I'm sure."
Manchester United are reportedly close to appointing Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim as their new boss before the end of this week.