Mohamed Salah's future hangs in balance as Liverpool eye Treble

The Reds are on course to potentially clinch four trophies this season, highlighted by their upcoming Carabao Cup final against Newcastle on March 16. However, the club face contract dilemmas with key players like Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, all of whom could leave as free agents in just 143 days.

Pundit Paul Merson has expressed skepticism about these stars committing their futures to Liverpool. "Call me a cynic, I don't think any of them sign," Merson stated to Sky Sports.

He cited the lure of the Premier League title and the financial incentives as major factors. "When Liverpool won the league in Covid it wasn't the same. If they go and win it this time in front of their fans... I just think Salah, Van Dijk, Trent, they've won the Champions League, they've won the Premier League in front of the fans – which will be a lot different, believe me, then I don't see them signing."

Salah, who earns 350,000 pounds a week, is reportedly seeking both a pay rise and a long-term commitment. Clubs from Saudi Arabia have been vocal about their interest, with one prominent figure describing Salah as their "big prize."

Despite this, recent unconfirmed reports suggested both Salah and Van Dijk have signed new deals, but delays are attributed to Alexander-Arnold's situation, with Real Madrid showing strong interest.

Arne Slot, Liverpool's new manager, has acknowledged the precarious contractual situations. "We have some contractual situations that you don't probably know about," Slot laughed when questioned. "But Trent, Mo, and Virgil haven't extended yet. So we are aware of the fact that we have to be sharp and ready for things that can happen."

On a brighter note, Slot has been pleasantly surprised by Ryan Gravenberch's performances. "I think Gravenberch has been one of the surprises of the season," said Gary Lineker on The Rest Is Football podcast, echoing sentiments from Slot who praised Gravenberch's versatility and impact since joining.

Gravenberch himself has acknowledged his growth, particularly in defense. "Back in the days when I played with Ajax in the youth (team), I didn't like to defend! But now, when you take off the ball from another player, it's like, 'Yes, I have it!'" he told Liverpool's official site.

Looking ahead, Liverpool are reportedly intensifying their efforts to sign Joshua Kimmich, who will be a free agent this summer, and have also given the go-ahead for a pursuit of Barcelona's Frenkie De Jong, potentially available for a bargain fee.

As Liverpool fans dream of silverware, the club's management must navigate these high-stakes contract negotiations to maintain their competitive edge.