David Ornstein Provides Update on Mohamed Salah’s Contract Situation at Liverpool | OneFootball

Mohamed Salah Contract Update: Optimism for Liverpool Fans?

As speculation continues to swirl around Mohamed Salah’s future, David Ornstein’s insights on Sky Sports’ Backpages Podcast provide a glimmer of hope for Liverpool fans. Amid the noise surrounding his contract and external interest, Ornstein’s comments offer a cautiously optimistic outlook that Salah could remain at Anfield beyond this season.

Salah’s Form Defies Age

At 32, Salah is not just defying age but setting new standards. With 12 goals and 10 assists in 19 appearances this season, his output remains elite. These figures highlight why Liverpool rejected a staggering £150 million bid from Al-Ittihad in September 2023, a move that underscored Salah’s immense value to the club.

Ornstein acknowledged Salah’s continuing brilliance, stating: “Despite his age, he’s showing no signs of slowing physically, technically, and you really do back him when he says that he feels that he’s got a few more years left in him at the very top level.”

Photo: IMAGO

This sentiment reflects Salah’s unrivalled professionalism and relentless drive. However, while his current contract — signed in July 2022 and reportedly worth £350,000 per week — makes him the highest-paid player in Liverpool’s history, renewing it will not be straightforward.

Wage Structure Concerns and Saudi Interest

Liverpool’s famed wage structure, carefully maintained under Fenway Sports Group (FSG), faces a potential challenge. A new deal for Salah could require a further increase in his wages, potentially disrupting harmony within the squad. As Ornstein pointed out:

“It’s just whether they can reach a compromise on clearly, what he expects to be paid and the length of contract, and what Liverpool and FSG in particular – who seem to have a policy over the age of 30 – are prepared to go to.”

Additionally, the Saudi Pro League’s persistent interest looms large. While Liverpool rejected Al-Ittihad’s lucrative offer earlier this year, the financial allure for both the club and Salah remains significant. Any future negotiations will need to balance Liverpool’s ambition with their financial pragmatism.

Familiar Territory for Salah and Liverpool

Interestingly, this is not the first time Salah’s contract has dominated headlines. Ornstein remarked:

“We’ve kind of been here before with Salah, and it’s worked out amicable in the end. I wouldn’t be surprised if it does again here.”

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s history with Salah indicates a mutual understanding between player and club, often resolving seemingly tense negotiations positively. Ornstein’s prediction that they “come to a compromise” aligns with this trend, offering reassurance to fans who dread the thought of losing their talisman.

The Timing of Contract Talks

While Liverpool’s recent 2-0 victory over Real Madrid was a monumental triumph, it has been somewhat overshadowed by contract discussions. Ornstein aptly summarised the situation:

“It’s a big story, and not ideal for the club on the eve of such a massive match against Real Madrid and then Manchester City on Sunday.”

This timing may be far from ideal, but it also reflects Salah’s importance to Liverpool’s plans. For both parties, resolving the contract impasse is paramount to maintaining focus on the pitch.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, Salah staying beyond this season would be a dream come true. His consistency, fitness, and ability to deliver in high-stakes moments are irreplaceable. Fans understand the club’s wage structure, but many would argue that Salah’s contributions justify any potential disruptions.

Renewing Salah’s contract would signal Liverpool’s ambition under Arne Slot. With the team already showing promising signs under the Dutchman’s leadership, keeping their star player would cement their position as Premier League and European contenders. Additionally, losing Salah to the Saudi Pro League could feel like an unwelcome step toward relinquishing competitive edge.

While Ornstein’s analysis is an opinion, it resonates with a hopeful narrative: Liverpool have been here before, and they’ve always found a way to keep Salah. If history is anything to go by, fans can remain optimistic that the Egyptian King will continue to reign at Anfield.