Liverpool’s Future in Flux: Contract Talks with Key Players Reveal Uncertain Path Ahead

As the clock ticks toward the summer of 2025, Liverpool faces potential exits that could reshape the squad under manager Arne Slot. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah are all approaching the final year of their contracts, a situation that former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson describes as “very, very strange.”

“It’s very strange that they’ve got into this situation with these players,” Robinson remarked to Football Insider. “Liverpool rarely let players run into the last year of their deal – at least in recent history.”

For Liverpool supporters, this unfamiliar territory brings both anxiety and questions about the club’s future direction, especially as sources confirm that while Ibrahima Konate’s new contract is almost complete, the futures of the other three stars are still in doubt. Here, we’ll explore the latest developments and what they might mean for Liverpool.

Konate’s Deal First to Move Forward

According to sources from TEAMtalk, Liverpool’s priority seems to be securing Ibrahima Konate’s future. The French centre-back, who has been a regular presence this season, is on the verge of finalising a new deal. This news should offer some comfort to fans, as it demonstrates the club’s commitment to its younger talents who could be pivotal in the years ahead.

However, Konate’s contract also highlights a different issue: why hasn’t similar progress been made with van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold, and Salah? Robinson notes, “You wonder why you’re not hearing that talks are underway when we are hearing about the other players like they are with Konate. The other three, you wonder whether those conversations are even taking place.”

It seems the priorities in Liverpool’s hierarchy may be shifting, leaving questions about how each of these players fits into Slot’s future plans.

Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold: Staying or Going?

Virgil van Dijk’s contract renewal appears to be in the pipeline, with all parties reportedly confident of reaching an agreement soon. The Dutchman’s leadership on the field is invaluable, and his departure could leave a void that would be hard to fill. Slot, no doubt, understands van Dijk’s importance and will likely push for a resolution to keep the veteran centre-back at Anfield.

Meanwhile, the case of Alexander-Arnold is slightly more complex. Real Madrid has been in touch with the English right-back’s representatives, exploring the possibility of a move to the Spanish capital. Yet, Liverpool insiders remain optimistic that a new long-term deal will be reached before January, one that would see Alexander-Arnold become one of the highest-paid players at the club.

The impact of his potential departure is significant. Losing a player of Alexander-Arnold’s calibre would not only disrupt the team’s tactical approach but would also send shockwaves through the fanbase. Should Real Madrid come calling, however, Liverpool may find it challenging to resist if the player himself wishes for a new adventure.

Salah’s Saudi Links: A Matter of Time?

Perhaps the most uncertain of the trio is Mohamed Salah. Although he continues to be a key figure in Slot’s squad, reports suggest that Salah is unlikely to sign a new deal with Liverpool, with persistent interest from the Saudi Pro League.

For fans, this could be the hardest pill to swallow. Salah has not only been a consistent goal-scorer but also a symbol of Liverpool’s recent successes. The prospect of losing him on a free transfer next summer adds to the urgency. As TEAMtalk noted, “Interest from the Saudi Pro League remains in the Egyptian international, and sources say it’s likely he’ll join a Saudi side on a free transfer next summer.”

Slot’s January Plans: New Targets on the Horizon

While the current focus is on retaining existing talent, Liverpool is already looking toward potential reinforcements. Reports from Spain indicate that former Manchester United full-back Alvaro Fernandez Carreras, now at Benfica, has attracted Liverpool’s interest as a potential new left-back. Although the move would require careful negotiation, with Benfica known for driving hard bargains, Slot seems intent on bolstering the squad in January.

It’s a sign that Liverpool’s leadership is preparing for potential changes in the coming year, positioning themselves to stay competitive regardless of who remains at Anfield.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, the prospect of losing van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold, and Salah all at once is as unsettling as it is improbable. While the club has shown its proactive approach with Konate, there’s a lingering question about why similar urgency isn’t extended to three players who have been pillars of Liverpool’s success.

Alexander-Arnold’s potential move to Real Madrid could be seen as both a shock and an opportunity. He’s transformed the right-back role with his attacking prowess and playmaking abilities, but if the club can secure a world-class replacement, it might offer a fresh tactical dimension under Slot.

As for Salah, the emotional aspect of his potential departure cannot be overlooked. Many fans feel a deep connection to Salah, not just because of his goal-scoring record but also due to his impact on the club’s identity. A move to the Saudi Pro League may make sense from a financial perspective, but from a legacy viewpoint, it would undoubtedly be a bittersweet exit for a player who has etched his name in Liverpool’s history.

Liverpool’s leadership faces a delicate balancing act: retaining these stars while ensuring the team evolves for future challenges. For the Anfield faithful, these next few months could shape the club’s identity for years to come.