Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson has made his preference clear regarding contract renewals for key players Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk. When asked who should be prioritized, he stated unequivocally, “Virgil van Dijk.” He emphasizes that securing the captain’s contract is crucial, noting that both Salah and Alexander-Arnold’s deals also expire in 2025.
“At least, including this season, three seasons — especially if he has quality around him,” Lawrenson explains regarding Van Dijk’s potential to maintain his performance level. He insists that keeping Van Dijk is vital because there is no suitable replacement available.
“Everything about him is very imposing,” he adds, highlighting Van Dijk’s organizational skills and strong presence in the dressing room. “He would be the really big one for me to keep — and he is captain.”
In contrast, Lawrenson suggests that Alexander-Arnold, the youngest of the three, might be tempted to join his England teammate Jude Bellingham at Real Madrid. “I wouldn’t be surprised if Trent went,” he remarks, indicating that the appeal of Madrid’s lifestyle and financial benefits might entice him.
As for Salah, Lawrenson expresses uncertainty about his future, noting that a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia could be appealing. However, he reiterates the importance of keeping Van Dijk, asserting, “If you keep Virgil, you have a chance.” He adds, “If Trent goes, we’ve got Conor Bradley.”
Every club would eagerly welcome Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer if given the chance. However, Lawrenson believes it ultimately comes down to a decision between staying at Anfield or moving to Real Madrid.
“I don’t see where else he is going to go,” the Liverpool legend states. “He’s an intelligent boy. He will be influenced by his mate at Real Madrid and might consider Spain for three years… Galactico… all those kinds of things… playing in a top team… it would appeal to anybody.”
He adds, “I don’t think they will be able to [convince him to stay]. How much more money does he need? Because he’s intelligent, he might think he can go to Real Madrid and play in a team that wins the Champions League every year. They don’t play quite as many games and you can live in Spain and enjoy your life.”
Lawrenson concludes, “He’s entitled to do whatever he wants. He’s been absolutely fantastic for the club. You could see when Arne Slot brought him off in the first couple of games and he had the hump, which is what you want. He just wants to play.”
“England messed him around in the Euros and that didn’t help, but do you know a better right-back? I don’t,” Lawrenson states, highlighting Alexander-Arnold’s exceptional passing ability. He adds, “I think he might find the attraction of playing for Real Madrid really strong. Who wouldn’t?”
Losing any of these players without a transfer fee would be a significant blow for Liverpool, making it difficult to replace them without reinvestment. “If you can get all three, that would be amazing,” Lawrenson remarks. “Trying to replace all three would be totally impossible — and with the money we’re talking about, I’m not sure they could.”
He notes that “Mo [Salah] has been quiet at the moment and he’s just waiting to hear where he can go.” While he doesn’t claim Salah is leaving, he acknowledges that with his contract expiring at the end of the season, Salah can afford to take his time as offers come in. “All three are in a fantastic position, they seriously are.”
“You would hate to lose anyone. If you lose one, maybe you can cope with it, but if you lost two, that’s completely different,” Lawrenson warns, noting the significant costs associated with acquiring replacements, including transfer fees and wages.
Despite the contract uncertainties surrounding three key players, Lawrenson has praised Slot’s management. The Reds have only lost one match this season and have conceded just three goals across all competitions.
“He’s not really changed too much. Why should he? Don’t touch it unless it’s broken,” Lawrenson states. “He’s been good. Everyone talks about the home defeat, but Nottingham Forest were brilliant. That was just one of those things.”
He believes that a low-key approach will be Slot’s focus: “The less fuss, the better.” Lawrenson adds that Slot is fortunate because his predecessor left the team in great shape. The main difference is that Slot prefers to maintain possession more, unlike Jurgen Klopp, who was more aggressive.
While there are contract issues to address, Lawrenson acknowledges there’s still time—96 days until January 1. On the pitch, however, everything is going well: “It’s seamless at the moment,” he says. “Slot’s doing really well.”
