Liverpool handed Jude Bellingham warning amid ‘£500,000-a-week’ contract claim – Whelan
Noel Whelan has warned Liverpool ahead of “make or break” contract negotiations with Sadio Mane.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed “throwing” a mega-money deal at the 30-year-old could prevent the Reds from signing talents like Jude Bellingham in future transfer windows.
This site revealed on Sunday (17 April) that Liverpool are planning to offer Mane a new contract – but will not break the bank to keep him.
The Senegal international, Mohamed Salah, and Roberto Firmino are all out of contract at the end of next season.
The trio have scored a combined 60 goals in all competitions this term.
However, Whelan claimed “throwing £500,000-a-week” at the ageing stars is not the answer.
“These contract negotiations could make or break their transfer windows for years to come,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Throwing all your money at one player is a really bad idea. Yes, he’s a phenomenal player – but you can’t be held to ransom.
“You’ve got to strengthen in other positions as well, even if players like Mane, Salah, and Firmino are vital to the structure at Liverpool.
“You can’t be throwing £500,000-a-week at one player. No matter how good he is.
“That kind of money could go towards a Jude Bellingham. That midfield is coming to a certain age now, and it will need investment.”
Liverpool have expressed interest in 18-year-old Borussia Dortmund star Bellingham in recent months.
Mane has netted 116 goals in 260 games for the Anfield club.
In other news, pundit tells Liverpool to sign “perfect” Trent Alexander-Arnold ally.