Liverpool manager Arne Slot has emphasized that the club’s intention to renew Mohamed Salah’s contract is “clear.”
Salah has long been a target for the wealthy Saudi Pro League, with Al Hilal recently emerging as the most likely destination if the Egyptian forward leaves Liverpool on a free transfer this summer.
Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal publicly expressed his desire to sign Salah, but when asked about those comments, Slot made it clear that Liverpool is equally eager to secure a new deal for their star player.
“I would be surprised if anyone around the world is saying, ‘We don’t want Mo Salah,'” Slot said at a recent press conference. “He has been performing at such a high level for many years that everyone probably wants him.
“He has been doing so well without my advice for a long time, so he can continue to make the best decisions for his career. But my advice would be different from what you mentioned [from the Saudi minister].”
Slot added, “What I mean by different is that everyone wants him, including us—we want him to stay, of course. That’s clear. But I’m not surprised that Saudi wants him, and I wouldn’t be shocked if other countries were interested too.”
Salah, who is experienced and wise in his career choices, will make the right decision for himself, Slot stated, “and hopefully for us as well.”
When pressed for further details on negotiations involving Salah, as well as Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who are also approaching the end of their contracts, Slot declined to comment further.
