Liverpool have seemingly ruled out the possibility of cashing in on Mohamed Salah during the summer transfer window.
The Merseyside giants spent a number of months earlier this year deliberating over who would replace Jurgen Klopp as manager, with the decision taken to appoint Feyenoord's Arne Slot.
With other behind-the-scenes roles needing filled, it has taken away from the need to hold extensive discussions with several of their key players.
Virgil van Dijk and Salah both have 12 months remaining on their respective contracts, effectively putting Liverpool in a position where they need to assess their options.
Although there is obvious value in retaining the services of both players in the hope that renewals will be signed, Liverpool know they will have opportunities to generate substantial funds through a sale.
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Decision made on Salah
As per The Mirror and suggested by sporting director Richard Hughes at a press conference, Liverpool are against providing updates on any developments behind the scenes at this stage.
When addressing the media, Hughes said: "On contractual situations, I don't think it would be fair for me to talk about these.
"These are private matters between club and players. The only concern I and Arne have about situations is total commitment from the players to the cause for next season and we're absolutely convinced that will be the case."
The report indicates that Liverpool are against accepting a big-money offer for Salah before the end of August, even if it risks missing out on a vast sum of money.
Salah is known to have admirers in the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Ittihad having failed with a £150m offer during the closing stages of the 2023 summer transfer window.
For the time being, Salah's stance on the matter is unknown, but the Egypt international is due to start pre-season training on Saturday.
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Can Liverpool afford to take a risk?
As well as Van Dijk and Salah, defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has also just entered the final 12 months of his contract.
In a perfect world, Liverpool would retain all three players, who are all legends at the club in their own right, but the club must do what they can to ensure they do not lose all three on free transfers in 2025.
With Van Dijk about to turn 33 years of age, his transfer value is considerably lower than the other two, and it makes far more sense to risk the centre-back leaving as a free agent than the other two.
However, unless new contracts are signed, Liverpool would be taking a considerable risk if they retained each of Alexander-Arnold and Salah past the end of August when big-money offers will surely be on the table.
Darren Plant
