Jamie Carragher believes Mohamed Salah’s new contract will significantly influence Liverpool’s ability to attract top transfer targets.
On Friday, months of speculation were finally laid to rest as Salah signed a new two-year contract with Liverpool. With his previous deal set to expire this summer and talks previously stalling, there were growing fears that an exit was on the cards.
However, the Egyptian star has now committed his future to Anfield, reportedly on a deal worth $460,000 per week—keeping him among the Premier League’s highest earners. Salah has been in outstanding form this season, playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s push for what could become their second league title.
Prior to Liverpool’s game against West Ham, Carragher reacted to Salah’s new deal and shares what he thinks it could mean for the club’s future. “What it does for the Liverpool players, its not just the Liverpool players now, probably more future players and maybe players that Liverpool are looking to in the summer” said the former Reds defender.
“I think the manager mentioned that in his press conference when you’re speaking to players now as they will be and agents over these next few months, it’s always helpful to say Mo Salah is still at the club next season.”
When asked whether Salah’s new deal would persuade Virgil van Dijk to stay, the pundit added: “Maybe but I think there might be some news on Virgil van Dijk next week. I think that the fact the Mo Salah news came out, maybe not trying to do two players on one day and maybe steal the thunder of either of the players. Mo Salah had his moment a few day ago and I’m sure that will be the case with Virgil van Dijk next week.”
The Liverpool legend had also made one “last request” for Salah earlier this week. “But there is one final request with regards to Salah on behalf of all of us who have loved every second of his Anfield career. I hope signing his contract does not mean that’s the end of his media interviews until the next round of negotiations are due! Can I book you in for Monday Night Football, Mo?” said the pundit.
While it never truly seemed likely that either player would leave, the fact that the first contract extension wasn’t confirmed until mid-April did raise some eyebrows. Slot was quick to credit sporting director Richard Hughes for the behind-the-scenes efforts, but the timing also reflects Salah’s satisfaction with the new manager. The Egyptian star’s willingness to commit further suggests confidence in the direction Slot is taking the team after succeeding Jürgen Klopp.
Liverpool.com says: Losing either Salah or Van Dijk would’ve been a misstep for Liverpool. While the news of Salah’s extension has been met with excitement, there’s also a strong sense of relief among fans and the club alike. With speculation now settled, Liverpool can head into a pivotal summer with clarity and renewed momentum.
