Liverpool may be on the brink of one of the boldest transitions in their modern history.
Former Reds striker Stan Collymore believes the club could part ways with both Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk in the summer of 2026 as Arne Slot reshapes Liverpool around a new core led by Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz.
According to Collymore, sentiment may soon take a back seat to long-term planning at Anfield.
a new era takes shape at anfield
Liverpool stunned the football world ahead of the 2025–26 season with a record-breaking transfer spree, securing Florian Wirtz for £116 million and Alexander Isak for £125 million. While injuries and inconsistent form have slowed their immediate impact, both players are viewed internally as the future faces of the club.
The reigning Premier League champions are determined to stay competitive domestically and in Europe, and that ambition may require difficult decisions involving established icons.
Salah and Van Dijk both signed contract extensions last season that run until 2027. However, Salah’s recent public outburst and Van Dijk’s advancing age — he turns 35 this July — have sparked debate over how long they should remain central figures.
does salah’s legacy protect him?
Speaking to GOAL, Collymore was clear: Mohamed Salah’s legacy at Liverpool is unquestionable.
“I think he’s up there with the greats,” Collymore said. “His numbers add up, his trophies add up. But this is the modern era — everything you say is amplified instantly.”
He also pointed to Salah’s global fanbase, noting that many international supporters follow the Egyptian superstar as much as they follow Liverpool itself. In today’s football landscape, individual brands often rival clubs in influence — a dynamic that can create internal tension.
Collymore suggested Salah may feel sidelined by the hype surrounding Isak and Wirtz, who arrived to huge fanfare and online adoration.
tough calls ahead for arne slot
Looking ahead, Collymore believes Slot’s long-term vision may force Liverpool’s hand.
“For Liverpool to become Arne Slot 2.0, one or both of Salah and Van Dijk may well go in the summer,” he explained. “If you’re going to indulge Isak and Wirtz as the new top men, then the old top men have got to go.”
While Van Dijk could potentially stay on for an additional season, Collymore feels Salah’s exit is more likely.
“I think Mo’s gone in the summertime, for sure,” he concluded.
evolution over emotion
Liverpool have never been afraid of making ruthless decisions — from selling Philippe Coutinho to phasing out club legends in previous eras. If Collymore’s prediction proves accurate, the summer of 2026 could mark another defining moment in the club’s evolution.
Whether Salah and Van Dijk stay or go, one thing is clear: Liverpool are preparing for a future led by Isak and Wirtz, even if it means saying goodbye to two modern-day icons.
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