Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has shared an update on Liverpool duo Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk as their contracts near expiration.
Liverpool have exceeded expectations this season and are on course to win the Premier League title, holding a 12-point lead over second-placed Arsenal with nine games left.
Despite their success, a major squad overhaul could be on the horizon. This campaign may mark the end of an era, with several players linked with departures and reinforcements needed in multiple positions.
The futures of Salah and Van Dijk remain uncertain, with both potentially following Trent Alexander-Arnold in leaving on a free transfer this summer after reports surfaced of the right-back agreeing to join Real Madrid.
However, compared to Alexander-Arnold—who is attracting Real Madrid’s interest and is at a different stage of his career—Salah and Van Dijk have always been considered more likely to extend their contracts with Liverpool.
In what could be a positive sign for Liverpool, Romano has clarified that Alexander-Arnold’s decision “won’t impact” Salah and Van Dijk.
“No, Trent’s decision won’t impact Salah and Van Dijk’s vision,” Romano told GiveMeSport.
“They are conducting their own negotiations, and it doesn’t get affected by Trent or any other player.”
Sky Sports journalist Melissa Reddy shares a similar view, stating that Alexander-Arnold’s departure will not influence Salah and Van Dijk, as their contract discussions are based on individual circumstances, performance data, and merit.
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy echoed this sentiment, saying:
“With the situation of Trent moving on, I don’t believe that this will have any bearing on the decision-making of Virgil or Mo when it comes to their own situations.
“They’re senior players with their own ambitions and plans, and I don’t see them being influenced by other contract expirations.
“If Salah leaves, you’d need two players to fill that void unless a world-class talent became available on the market. I really admire Rodrygo from Real Madrid, but that seems unlikely.
“I also like Jarrod Bowen—he’s a proven goal-scorer for West Ham and is underrated in my opinion. He understands the Premier League, but he alone wouldn’t be enough to replace Salah. A younger talent would be needed alongside him, and I see Tyler Dibling from Southampton as a potential future star. He’s physically strong, excellent on the ball, and has an eye for goal.”