Frank Christian
Graeme Souness, a former captain of Liverpool, has shared his thoughts regarding the impending contract renewal discussions involving Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah.
Each of these players will see their contracts at Anfield end after the 2024/25 season, making fans anxious about who will remain with the club and who might leave.
The club is willing to discuss extending contracts for this important trio, but they are cautious about the financial implications of renewing three significant contracts, which may affect negotiations.
Veterans Salah and Van Dijk are reportedly considering two-year contract offers, while 25-year-old Alexander-Arnold has been proposed a longer-term contract, as Real Madrid has shown interest in him.
Starting January, all three players have the option to negotiate with clubs outside the Premier League; however, any transfers cannot take place until the summer unless Liverpool agrees to cancel their contracts.
Souness expressed skepticism about Liverpool selling any of these players during the January transfer window but acknowledged that retaining all three may prove challenging for manager Arne Slot.
“I can guarantee that Liverpool will be in talks with their representatives and will have insight into their plans,” he mentioned in an interview with the Daily Mail.
“Trent seems to have a connection with Jude Bellingham at Real Madrid. Would it shock me if he ends up there? Not at all.
“Am I surprised if Virgil chooses to stay? No. Among the three, I see him as the most likely to remain, as there aren’t many options available that would offer him more money and prestige than Liverpool.
“Would it astonish me if Salah decides to stay? Perhaps. I believe there would be significant allure for him, being an Egyptian and a Muslim, to secure a huge financial package for the next few years in Saudi Arabia.
This will truly test the team and Slot’s management skills.”
While it’s still early in the discussions, it would be hard to picture a Liverpool team missing both Alexander-Arnold and Salah, given their contributions during Jurgen Klopp’s tenure.
As Liverpool approaches the October international break, they are leading the Premier League, holding a slight advantage over Manchester City and Arsenal, gearing up for their return to the EPL at home against Chelsea on October 20.
