Liverpool have reportedly held "positive" contract talks with the agent of Mohamed Salah, despite comments suggesting otherwise.
On Sunday afternoon, the Egypt international played an influential role as the Merseyside giants recorded a 3-2 victory at Southampton.
However, rather than the focus being on Arne Slot's side moving eight points clear in the Premier League table, there has been a different topic of conversation over the past 24 hours.
Salah has claimed that he is currently more likely to leave Liverpool than stay put, a consequence of the club's hierarchy failing to present a formal offer of a new contract.
The 32-year-old indicated that the situation was 'out of his hands' as he awaits further developments that he hopes will be instigated by the powers-that-be.
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Salah situation not as discouraging as first thought?
However, as per The Athletic, Liverpool have been holding conversations with agent Ramy Abbas.
The report suggests that discussions have been "positive" and remain "ongoing", giving the impression that the relevant parties will eventually find a positive resolution.
Nevertheless, it is emphasised that Liverpool need to find an outcome that makes financial sense for the club.
Salah is already the highest-paid player and a debate may rise over whether senior figures can justify a pay rise for someone who will turn 33 years of age in June.
While there have been suggestions that Liverpool could soon be in the market for a younger alternative, they cannot necessarily expect them to match Salah in terms of numbers and influence.
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The clear standout Premier League player of 2024-25
In 12 Premier League starts for Liverpool this season, Salah has only failed to contribute a goal or assist in two matches.
His double against the Saints represented the first time that he has netted more than once in a top-flight fixture since the middle of August, yet he still has 10 goals and six assists to his name.
Salah is already just 12 contributions short than his total of 28 for 2023-24, and his numbers also carry over into the Champions League.
While the attacker did not net or provide an assist against AC Milan, he has since chipped in with one goal and four assists from his following three outings in the competition.