Did Liverpool almost let Mohamed Salah leave for free?

Yes, Liverpool chairman Tom Werner stated the club was prepared for Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk to depart without a transfer fee if contract negotiations failed.

Why were Salah and Van Dijk's contracts so difficult to negotiate?

The negotiations were protracted, and the club was willing to let the players leave for free if the financial terms were not suitable for the club.

Who is responsible for Liverpool's contract negotiations?

Sporting director Richard Hughes managed the contract negotiations for players like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, earning praise from chairman Tom Werner.

Home / Sports / Liverpool Nearly Lost Salah & Van Dijk for Nothing

Liverpool Nearly Lost Salah & Van Dijk for Nothing

20 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Liverpool chairman admitted Salah and Van Dijk could have left for free.
Contract talks were protracted, nearing a stalemate last season.
Club trusts sporting director Richard Hughes to manage negotiations.

Liverpool Nearly Lost Salah & Van Dijk for Nothing

Liverpool chairman Tom Werner disclosed that the club was prepared for Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk to leave as free agents last summer.

Both stars were in the final year of their respective contracts, leading to protracted negotiations that extended throughout the team's title pursuit. Werner emphasized the club's financial considerations and expressed trust in sporting director Richard Hughes to manage these critical discussions.

While the eventual contract extensions for Salah and Van Dijk were met with fan approval, their current season's struggles have led to scrutiny. Former players like Wayne Rooney have questioned their leadership and attitude, contributing to Liverpool's inconsistent form and their current league standing.

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