Mohamed Salah’s decision to remain at Liverpool has put an end to one of the season’s biggest transfer sagas but the journey to this resolution wasn’t always straightforward. Back in November, the Egyptian forward sparked uncertainty over his future, hinting he was “more out than in” when asked about staying at Anfield. However, sources close to the situation insist that despite the doubts, Salah’s heart was always set on continuing with Liverpool if the terms were right.
Reports of a staggering £500 million offer from Saudi Arabia emerged, but Salah ultimately rejected the eye-watering deal. His focus remained on extending his successful eight-year spell at Liverpool a commitment now cemented with a new two-year contract, taking him through to the age of 34.
The turning point came at the end of March, when a breakthrough in negotiations was reached between Salah, his agent Ramy Abbas Issa, and Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes. The formalities were wrapped up earlier this week.
Mohamed Salah
Even Salah’s teammates were kept in the dark left-back Andy Robertson admitted in an interview with BBC Sport that he only learned of the new contract on Thursday. Salah’s extension will see him potentially complete a decade at the club, much to the delight of Liverpool fans.
Salah isn’t taking a pay cut to stay at Liverpool in fact, his new two-year deal will see him earn close to £400,000 per week. It’s a level of financial security rarely offered to players in their 30s, but Liverpool clearly see Salah as an exception.
The club has gone all-in, but not without careful thought. Salah, after all, is no ordinary player. With 54 goal contributions this season alone, replacing him would be incredibly challenging and even more costly.
Finding a forward of his caliber is tough enough; financing such a move would be a major hurdle. The expected departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid when his contract expires this summer may have created the financial breathing room needed to secure Salah’s future, along with Virgil van Dijk, who is also close to agreeing a new deal.
Still, while money played a role, it wasn’t the deciding factor for Salah a player still at the peak of his powers, with ambition and loyalty playing just as important a part in his decision to stay.
Also Check: Andre Onana dropped for Manchester United vs Newcastle clash