Liverpool news: Pundit issues verdict on Reds replacing Sadio Mane with ‘brilliant talent’
Sadio Mane must concentrate on maintaining his good form in order to earn a new Liverpool contract, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted he “very much doubts” the 30-year-old is headed for an Anfield exit despite the arrival of “brilliant talent” Luis Diaz.
This site revealed yesterday (4 March) that Mane fears Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group “want him out” amid an ongoing contract stalemate – with his current deal expiring in 2023.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Mane had hoped to have secured his future by now.
The arrival of Diaz has suggested to the winger that he does not figure prominently in the club’s forward planning.
Whelan insisted there is “no reason” why the pair cannot work together to take Liverpool to new heights.
“I would very much doubt that Liverpool would let Mane leave,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“They’ve brought Diaz in, who looks like a brilliant talent. He’s one for the future and he’s already hit the ground running. That can only be a good thing for Liverpool.
“He’s come in at exactly the right time and will boost their chances of adding that extra silverware this season, especially with the quadruple still on. There’s no reason they can’t work together in future.
“I wouldn’t be worrying too much about a contract if I was Mane. All he can do is keep performing to the best of his ability, and I’m sure there’ll be a deal on the table come the end of the season.”
Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino are also out of contract at the end of next season.
Mane has netted 11 goals in 23 Premier League appearances this term, equalling his tally from last season.
In other news, pundit issues “disgrace” verdict after Liverpool update on new Salah deal.