What Mo Salah is looking for in a new deal, and why Liverpool might hold off

It is easy to forget that many people believed Liverpool were crazy for rejecting absurd offers for Mohamed Salah from Saudi Arabia during the summer.

Nevertheless, senior Anfield officials held loyal to their conviction that it was best to postpone making any decisions regarding the Egyptian’s future until the last year of his contract, despite receiving offers for the player that might have totaled up to £150 million.

It would be reasonable to argue that position has been fully validated as we approach the end of a campaign that has produced 24 goals, 13 assists, one League Cup, and Champions League qualification.

Even still, the authorities would have to concede that things are a little more tricky this time around if they thought last year’s call about the Reds’ top player was simple.

This Is Anfield is aware that Salah is currently expected to remain at the club in order to assist initiate the Arne Slot era.

And since the German coach is leaving this summer any worries that the intense altercation with Jurgen Klopp on the touchline last weekend altered anything are unfounded.

Salah’s desires and Liverpool’s position

However, it would be foolish to imply that an extended stay is 100% guaranteed, especially considering the numerous uncontrollable factors that will be involved.

First, based on his reported £350,000 weekly salary and recent signs of decline, Salah is believed to be seeking a contract extension that would last at least a year. This is by no means a formality.

As has been the case for several outstanding employees over the years, Liverpool is willing to wait an additional year and let a player who has served them so well leave on a free transfer.

But if a new agreement isn’t reached, you have to question if Salah would want to use his still-undiminished position to negotiate a better contract somewhere else.

The 31-year-old is undoubtedly eager to play at the best level for as long as possible and believes he is more than capable of doing so.

Saudi Arabia’s allure

It will be intriguing to observe if the Saudi Pro League’s promises of enormous wealth put their commitment to the test once more.

Ramy Abbas Issa, Salah’s well-known agent, had previously publicly ruled out a move on social media. However, as the sums being offered by the Saudis increased towards the end of last summer’s window, Issa became silent.

And if the Public Investment Fund is truly dedicated to managing a football revolution in the Middle East, they will undoubtedly return this year with all the intention of snagging the top Arab player in the league.

Because so many outside variables could throw a wrench in the works in the coming months, it would be foolish to interpret Liverpool’s faith in Salah as the last word on his future.