Liverpool’s transition from Jurgen Klopp to Arne Slot has been smoother than expected, with the new manager shattering several records following his incredible start at the club.
However, despite the excitement on the pitch, fans remain anxious about the situation surrounding Virgil Van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah. They are all in the final year of their contracts and could walk away at the end of the season. With goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher also facing an uncertain future, these are nervy times.
Van Dijk is Irreplaceable
Van Dijk is a pivotal part of Liverpool’s fantastic defensive record this season. He has also chipped in with crucial goals and his leadership at the back is critical. Liverpool will struggle to replace a centre-half of his calibre. The 33-year-old needs to be retained by any means necessary.
Where do Liverpool look in Europe to find someone who can replicate Van Dijk’s poise, composure and reading of the game? None of the players linked to the Reds are in the same bracket as the Dutchman. Losing him, even in the twilight of his career, would be a massive blow.
Kelleher Deserves a Starting Berth
Kelleher’s situation is different. He is the second-choice goalkeeper, and is keen to secure a regular starting berth. This is unlikely to happen at Liverpool. However, the more sensible idea would be for the club to sell Alisson Becker, whose injuries have become more frequent. He has already spent a chunk of the season on the sidelines.
The Republic of Ireland international has replaced him adeptly between the sticks. He has become a popular pick with bettors in the ‘keep a clean sheet’ market. The sportsbooks listed on Dundalk Sport IE will continue to be inundated with wagers if Kelleher retains his place in the team, but that will be easier said than done as Alisson is the undisputed number one when is fit.
Salah Must Stay
Salah is another popular pick with sports bettors. The Egyptian has been in sensational form, and his attacking powers have shown no signs of waning. He is the eighth-all-time highest scorer in the Premier League and his consistency is unmatched at Liverpool.
Touted replacements such as Bryan Mbeumo and Antoine Semenyo are talented players, but neither are in the same bracket as Salah. Losing the forward would be catastrophic for Liverpool and they must find a way to tie him down to a new contract.
Alexender-Arnold Deserves a New Deal
Right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold is another player who Liverpool cannot afford to lose. The 25-year-old is an unbelievable playmaker and has improved defensively this season. Real Madrid are reportedly keen to sign him on a free transfer next summer and Liverpool must prevent this from happening.
His impact was telling when he came off the bench to provide two assists to turn the recent game at Newcastle United. Alexander-Arnold is a key component of Liverpool’s team and retaining him should be a priority for the club.
Liverpool Must Resolve the Situation
Losing all four players could cripple the club’s best-laid plans for several years. The decisions Liverpool make regarding their futures will have a profound impact on the club.
They have reportedly offered Van Dijk, Salah and Alexander-Arnold new contracts, but speculation about their respective futures continues to circulate. Negotiations could continue deep into the season, leaving fans wondering how things will unfold. With Kelleher’s future also unclear, supporters face an anxious wait.
