Liverpool’s Contract Dilemmas: Salah, Van Dijk, and Trent – What’s Next?

Liverpool have kicked off the Premier League season with renewed vigor under Arne Slot, but off the pitch, there are key decisions looming. With the contracts of Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all approaching critical points, Liverpool’s hierarchy must navigate delicate negotiations. In a recent episode of the Media Matters podcast by Anfield Index, The Sunday Times journalist Jonathan Northcroft shared his thoughts on the club’s contract situation, as well as his assessment of Liverpool’s Sporting Director, Richard Hughes.

Mohamed Salah: The Biggest Decision

Salah’s future is perhaps the most talked-about contract renewal at Anfield, and for good reason. Northcroft expressed how difficult it is to predict how things will pan out for the Egyptian star. “Yes, Salah wants to stay, but he knows his worth,” Northcroft said during the podcast, adding, “He’s one of the best players in the world and he could still get a lucrative contract elsewhere, even at this stage of his career.”

Northcroft acknowledged that Salah’s importance to Liverpool cannot be understated. He highlighted how Salah, even at 32, continues to excel and evolve as a player. “He’s probably getting better in many ways, especially as a playmaker. The assists we’re seeing this season show his growing influence in creating chances,” said Northcroft. The big question Liverpool’s management must answer is whether they’re willing to offer Salah the long-term deal he’ll likely demand.

“Liverpool have to decide what Salah will bring not just next season, but in two or three seasons,” Northcroft continued, noting that Salah’s current level of play suggests he could continue to dominate. However, balancing this against the club’s long-term vision will be one of the toughest tests for Liverpool’s sporting leadership.

Virgil van Dijk: Time To Make The Call

While Salah’s situation is tricky, Van Dijk’s contract brings a different set of challenges. Now over 30, the towering centre-back remains one of the best defenders in the world, but the club must consider the financial implications of extending his stay on a high salary. “Centre-back is a tough position to replace, especially when you’ve got someone like Van Dijk who’s been so important to Liverpool’s success,” Northcroft explained.

However, Northcroft was candid about the difficulties of renewing contracts for aging players. “My gut instinct is that Liverpool will find it hard to keep both Salah and Van Dijk on long-term deals. It’s not just about what they offer now, but what their roles will look like in a few years.” Northcroft hinted that the club might have to make tough choices between their veteran stars, suggesting that they may prioritize one over the other.

Northcroft also noted that Van Dijk has expressed a desire to stay at Anfield for a few more years, a factor that could influence the decision-making process. “He’s said as much in recent interviews, and for Liverpool, it’s a question of how long they can sustain such a high wage bill for multiple aging stars.”

Trent Alexander-Arnold: Different Kind of Renewal

Unlike Salah and Van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold represents a different type of contract renewal. At 25, he’s entering his prime years, and his next deal will likely be the most significant of his career. “This is a different challenge for Liverpool. Trent is younger, and he’s arguably the most important player for the club’s future,” Northcroft pointed out.

Northcroft emphasized how vital Trent has become to Liverpool’s tactical setup, especially under Slot. “He’s a unique player. He’s stepping into midfield roles, dictating play, and becoming a playmaker from deep. His versatility makes him one of the most valuable assets Liverpool have.”

For Northcroft, securing Trent on a long-term contract is not just about retaining a key player, but also about keeping the club’s identity intact. “He’s the local lad, the future captain, and the face of Liverpool’s next generation. Getting this deal done is a priority.”

Richard Hughes: The Man Behind The Contracts

Much of the responsibility for navigating these complex contract renewals falls on Sporting Director Richard Hughes, a figure Northcroft praised for his strategic thinking and patience. “Hughes is an impressive operator,” said Northcroft. He noted that, although Hughes hasn’t been at the club long, he’s already earned respect within the football industry for his methodical approach to transfers and contract negotiations.

Hughes’ ability to remain calm under pressure was something Northcroft admired. “He’s shown that he’s not afraid to wait for the right deal. That was clear in how Liverpool approached the summer transfer window. He didn’t panic buy, and that kind of patience could be key as he navigates these difficult contract renewals.”

Northcroft also pointed out that while fans may have been frustrated by the lack of signings in certain areas, Hughes’ long-term strategy could pay dividends. “He’s thinking two or three steps ahead, and he’s not rushing into decisions just to appease fans. That’s a Michael Edwards-like quality,” Northcroft commented, comparing Hughes to Liverpool’s former transfer guru.

Hughes has the unenviable task of deciding how Liverpool balance their squad’s financial future while keeping star players happy. As Northcroft said, “He has a huge task ahead with Salah, Van Dijk, and Trent, but so far, he’s shown he’s up to the challenge.”

What’s Next for Liverpool?

As Liverpool continue to shine on the pitch, the club faces difficult decisions behind the scenes. With Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all at different stages of their careers, Liverpool’s contract renewals will be a balancing act between securing immediate success and preparing for the future.

Northcroft’s insights make it clear: Sporting Director Richard Hughes will play a pivotal role in determining the direction Liverpool take. Whether the club chooses to prioritise youth or continue to rely on its established stars remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—these contract renewals will shape the club’s fortunes for years to come.