Journalist Confirms 3-Year Contracts To Be Offered to Salah and Van Dijk | OneFootball

Saudi Arabia’s Alluring Offers for Salah and Van Dijk: What Liverpool Could Lose

The pull of Saudi Arabian football is increasingly difficult for players to resist, and now it’s the turn of two of Liverpool’s most prized assets, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, to face tempting offers from the Middle East. According to Jason Pettigrove of Caught Offside, Al-Ahli has grand plans to entice the duo with lucrative three-year contracts, including an option for a fourth year. This development raises serious questions for Liverpool fans and the club alike as Salah and Van Dijk edge closer to the end of their current contracts, both set to expire in 2025.

Three-Year Contracts with Big Money Temptation

The offer from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli is nothing short of massive. After Liverpool rebuffed a British record transfer bid worth £150 million for Salah last year, it’s clear that the Saudi Pro League has returned with an even more attractive proposition. In particular, Salah’s appeal lies in his profile as a star athlete in the Muslim world, something the league is keen to capitalise on. Van Dijk, meanwhile, brings leadership and an unrivalled defensive prowess, qualities that Saudi football is eager to showcase on their growing stage.

Al-Ahli’s bid to secure Salah and Van Dijk includes three-year contracts with a potential extra year, signalling their intent to build a team that can compete on the world stage. With top names like Roberto Firmino, Ivan Toney and Riyad Mahrez already part of the league, adding Salah and Van Dijk could significantly elevate the quality and appeal of Saudi football.

Photo: IMAGO

Why Liverpool Must Act Now to Retain Salah and Van Dijk

Liverpool finds itself in a precarious situation. With both Salah and Van Dijk approaching free agency, there’s a pressing need to sort out contract renewals before the end of the season. Losing these players would be a hammer blow, particularly as 2025 could see an exodus from Anfield, with other key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold also potentially on their way out.

The club must decide who is more valuable to retain if a compromise cannot be reached. Salah, with his incredible goal-scoring record and global fanbase, has consistently proven his importance. Van Dijk, on the other hand, is an irreplaceable figure in Liverpool’s defensive line and a leader on the pitch. Their departure would leave holes that could take years to fill, a risk Liverpool cannot afford if they wish to remain competitive at the highest level.

Can Liverpool Compete with the Saudi Financial Power?

The financial clout of Saudi Arabia’s football projects is something most European clubs simply cannot match. Liverpool, known for its strategic and sensible spending, may find it challenging to offer contracts that compete with Al-Ahli’s immense resources. However, there’s more at stake than just money. Liverpool’s stature, history, and ambition could still hold significant appeal for players like Salah and Van Dijk, who have enjoyed substantial success with the club.

Moreover, fans will argue that the Premier League still offers a level of competitive football unmatched by the Saudi Pro League. While the allure of a lucrative contract in a newer league is undeniable, players of Salah’s and Van Dijk’s calibre may weigh their choices carefully, given the legacy they could leave behind at Anfield.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool’s Next Steps in Retaining Their Stars

Liverpool’s management must act swiftly and decisively. Whether by offering attractive contract renewals or through heartfelt pitches about the club’s future ambitions, the Reds need to show Salah and Van Dijk why they should remain in Merseyside. Arne Slot, who took over from Jürgen Klopp in May 2024, faces his first real test in handling these high-stakes negotiations. Losing both players would be a significant setback to his plans and could force Liverpool into a period of rebuilding.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The potential loss of both Salah and Van Dijk should sound alarms at Anfield. From a fan’s perspective, seeing two modern legends consider a move to Saudi Arabia feels like the beginning of an uncertain era. Salah, often dubbed the “Egyptian King,” has become synonymous with Liverpool’s attacking flair and success over recent years. If he were to leave, not only would it rob the club of his goals and assists, but it would also strip away a beloved icon, a player fans travel miles to watch.

Photo: IMAGO

As for Van Dijk, the Dutch defender transformed Liverpool’s defence when he joined. His calmness under pressure and towering presence at the back have given Liverpool a defensive edge that brought a Champions League and Premier League title back to Anfield. To imagine him in another club’s colours, especially in a league yet to prove its competitiveness, is troubling.

If Liverpool were to lose both in the same year, it could usher in a challenging period where the club must look to rebuild, rather than compete immediately for the top titles. Fans will no doubt hope the club can convince both players to stay, with heartfelt appeals and strategic contract offers that reflect their value to the team and the city. In short, 2025 could mark a significant turning point for Liverpool Football Club, one that could either solidify or compromise their status among Europe’s elite.