Liverpool fans could go ‘ballistic’ after Anfield source’s update on Salah talks – pundit
Noel Whelan has insisted “fans would go absolutely ballistic” if Liverpool cannot agree contract terms with Mohamed Salah.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested a “select” queue of clubs would be waiting in the wings in case of a breakdown in talks at Anfield.
A Liverpool source told Football Insider on Saturday (11 December) there is a growing sense among the Anfield board a deal can be done following recent discussions.
However, the source explained discussions have been “tricky” and are at a “delicate stage”.
The board want a new contract agreed by the turn of the year but have been reluctant to meet the 29-year-old’s £500,000-a-week wage demands.
Whelan admitted Salah “holds the cards” in negotiations.
He suggested interest from elsewhere would be building the longer talks rumble on.
Asked if Liverpool hold any cards in negotiations, Whelan told Football Insider: “I think the power is all with the player. The club have got to realise how important he is to them with his goals, assists and performances.
“You’ve got to say, when you’re playing well like that, you’re a standout in the side. When you’re that important, the player holds the cards, absolutely.
“There’ll be an absolute queue of clubs who want to take him on. The only thing is the queue of clubs will be very selective.
“Not everyone can afford those sort of wages.
“You can’t afford to let him go. The fans could go absolutely ballistic if you allow him to leave and don’t give him what he is asking for.
“Whatever it takes to get him to sign at Liverpool, that would be a sign of intent that they’re not looking to weaken their side. They’re looking to get the best players at the club and show that power that they have.”
Salah has enjoyed an exceptional start to the 2021/22 campaign, with 20 goals in 21 appearances.
His current contract expires in the summer of 2023.
In other news, Liverpool told “unbelievable” player open to Anfield move and keen to join next year.