The Salah Saga - Contract Talks and Saudi Suitors

Liverpool Football Club is strategizing to present Mohamed Salah with a fresh contract as a measure to ward off interest from Saudi Arabia. However, uncertainty looms over the future of Luis Diaz. 

Salah, aged 31, entered a new three-year deal with the Reds during the summer of 2022. Nevertheless, with just a year left on his current agreement at the end of the ongoing season, his future remains under speculation. The Egyptian star has maintained exceptional performance levels for Liverpool throughout the season, attracting attention from clubs beyond the Premier League. 

Various ambitious clubs from the Saudi Pro League have persistently expressed interest in Salah, aiming to lure one of England's premier talents to the Gulf State. Despite Al-Ittihad's substantial £150 million bid being rebuffed in the previous summer, other clubs are anticipated to make offers in the forthcoming months. Nonetheless, Liverpool remains resolute in retaining their key player. 

Recent reports indicate Liverpool's intent to retain Salah, although the departure of other players could be on the cards if he agrees to extend his contract. It's suggested that offers for Diaz, who has garnered interest from Spanish clubs, would be entertained. 

Diaz, the 27-year-old Colombian international, endured a sluggish start to the season. However, his recent performances have seen an upturn, contributing three goals and three assists in the last five Premier League matches, aiding Liverpool in maintaining their position at the league summit. 

While Diaz's potential departure is speculated, it's highlighted that Liverpool's impending managerial change, along with the appointment of a new sporting director, will be pivotal in securing contract extensions for three vital players at the club. 

Ensuring the continued services of Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and club captain Virgil van Dijk is deemed a top priority for Klopp's successor, who will assume the reins at the end of the current season. Van Dijk, reflecting on his contract situation back in January, acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his role in the post-Klopp era. With 18 months remaining on his current deal, he emphasized the significant task ahead for the club in managing the transition. 

Van Dijk remarked to reporters that it was indeed correct about his contract status and stated that the club would have a big job on their hands. He mentioned that it was well known about the need to replace the manager and not only the manager but also the staff leaving, indicating numerous changes to come. Van Dijk expressed curiosity about the direction the club would take and mentioned that it was uncertain when the announcement would be made regarding their situation. He added that he couldn’t say now.