Liverpool chairman Tom Werner has revealed that last summer, the club was prepared to let Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk leave for free.
Both players were entering the final year of their contracts, and months of intense negotiations ran alongside Liverpool’s title-winning campaign.
Werner admitted that Fenway Sports Group came close to walking away if the financial terms weren’t right, but ultimately, the deals were agreed, securing new contracts for the two stars.
Praise for Richard Hughes’ Role in the Negotiations
Werner heaped praise on Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes, describing him as patient, strategic, and respectful in his dealings.
“My impatience is balanced by his patience,” Werner said.
“I’d call him frequently about Mo Salah’s contract, and he would reassure me that it would all work out in the end.
We were delighted the deals were sorted, but if Richard had said the gap was too big, I would have respected that too.”
He emphasized the trust between the board and Hughes, noting that Liverpool executives provide support rather than meddling in the club’s operations.
Fans Rejoiced, But Critics Questioned the Decision
When the new deals were announced, Liverpool fans celebrated securing two of the club’s modern legends.
But questions have emerged this season, as the Reds have struggled in the Premier League.
Wayne Rooney recently criticized the pair, claiming their attitude has been a “big concern” following a string of poor results, including a 3-1 loss to Brentford.
He suggested that their body language affects the rest of the squad, particularly when they are meant to lead.
Salah’s Form Raises Eyebrows
Mohamed Salah, in particular, has struggled to reproduce the brilliance of past seasons.
After scoring 34 goals and providing 23 assists in 52 matches last term, he has delivered just four goals and two assists in 11 Premier League games this season.
German media have singled him out, noting that Salah’s “solo” style has hindered the integration of £116million signing Florian Wirtz.
Wirtz has yet to register a goal or assist, highlighting concerns about Salah’s influence on new teammates.
Van Dijk and Leadership Concerns
Virgil van Dijk has also faced scrutiny as one of Liverpool’s senior figures.
Experts, including Rooney, suggest that both he and Salah have not fully stepped into leadership roles, which could explain the team’s struggles despite high-profile talent.
With Liverpool sitting eighth, eight points behind league leaders Arsenal, pressure is mounting on the duo to help guide the club back to form.
Calls for January Reinforcements
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes the squad may need reinforcements during the January transfer window, particularly in defence.
He argued that the current squad may not be equipped to win the Premier League or secure a Champions League spot without additional pace, physicality, and power.
“If Liverpool don’t sign a defender in January, they could miss out on the Champions League,” Carragher said.
Looking Ahead
Liverpool will hope to reverse their fortunes after the international break when they host Nottingham Forest at Anfield.
With Salah and Van Dijk back in focus, the Reds will need leadership and form from their stars if they hope to close the gap to Arsenal and reignite their title defence.
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