Mohamed Salah’s impending departure at the end of the 2025/26 season marks the end of an era at Liverpool.
The Merseyside giants face the huge task of replacing one of the greatest wingers in Premier League history as the King of Egypt prepares to bid farewell to Anfield after nine record-breaking years.
While Liverpool have been linked with ambitious moves for international stars such as Athletic Club’s Nico Williams and RB Leipzig’s Yann Diomande, former striker Michael Owen has backed a Premier League player to replace Salah at Anfield.
West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen has been backed by Owen to move to Anfield.
Liverpool are looking for a replacement for Mo Salah
Replacing Salah will involve not just signing a talented forward, but identifying a player who can shoulder immense pressure while delivering a relentless and clinical output from the right flank.
In a question asked by talkSPORT about meeting Bowen at Liverpool, the football pundit said:
“how do you know?
“I said that to some of my buddies the other day. I said if I had one player, I would.
“By the way, obviously Jarrod Bowen is a legendary player and West Ham adore this guy and rightly so.
“But even if West Ham lost, he would be perfect for me.
“I think he’s really great.
“I was lucky enough to do something like an impressive master class on the TV show I did with him last season, and it was unbelievable.
“Honestly, left foot, right foot, bang, bang, corner, pace. I mean, a real top finisher.
“I think he’s a great player. I’m going to take him to the World Cup. And, like I say, I don’t want to upset the West Ham fans, but I think he’s the player to replace Salah if they go down.”
Bowen, 29, represents a proven, off-the-shelf solution in the Premier League. The England international has the qualities to shine at a big club.
Despite West Ham’s chaotic season, Bowen has maintained high standards. The Hammers captain remains their most reliable attacking outlet, constantly troubling defenses with his direct running and sharp end product.
What does relegation mean for Bowen?
Bowen currently has a lucrative long-term contract at the London Stadium until June 2030.
Under normal circumstances, selling him would have required an exorbitant fee, with his current valuation hovering around £60m.
However, West Ham’s desperate battle to remain in the league could change the situation.
Retaining their top earners and talismans would prove incredibly difficult both financially and from a sporting point of view.
A relegation scenario would undoubtedly force West Ham to soften their stance, paving the way for Liverpool to make a move.
Chelsea and Liverpool have inquired about signing the 25-year-old PL star, but Tottenham have the advantage in the race
