Liverpool are reportedly not planning a farewell for Mohamed Salah when the Reds face Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League on Saturday.
The Egyptian forward missed Liverpool’s Champions League trip to Italy for their victory over Inter Milan on Tuesday.
Salah had previously spoken out in a controversial interview, claiming the club had “thrown him under the bus,” after being left on the bench in three consecutive matches.
Salah’s Status Ahead of the Game
Salah has told his family to attend the match against Brighton, suggesting it could be his final appearance at Anfield before joining the Africa Cup of Nations next week.
Despite his eagerness to play, it remains unclear whether he will be included in Liverpool’s squad.
The club is reportedly reluctant to diminish his transfer value by making it obvious he has no future at Anfield.
Salah has expressed frustration publicly, claiming that everyone hates him after limited playing time.
Saudi Interest and Transfer Considerations
According to reports, Liverpool want to protect any potential transfer fee for Salah, as numerous Saudi Arabian clubs are reportedly willing to “do whatever it takes” to secure his services.
The Reds are expected to seek the highest fee possible, with the January transfer window seen as a key opportunity.
Liverpool’s stance is that Salah, whose contract runs until 2027, should generate a substantial fee.
Publicly showcasing him in a farewell scenario could weaken the club’s negotiation position, particularly with a move to the Saudi Pro League viewed as the most likely outcome.
A source stated that competition for Salah is intensifying within the Saudi league, beyond clubs affiliated with the Public Investment Fund.
Despite recent cutbacks in spending by Saudi clubs, they are prepared to make exceptions for high-profile targets like Salah, who has been pursued for more than two years.
Talks to Resolve Stand-Off
Salah trained alone on Tuesday, having joined the team on Monday.
His inclusion for the Brighton match will likely be confirmed on Friday.
Discussions between Salah and Liverpool officials are expected to determine a resolution to the ongoing stand-off.
Gary Lineker Weighs In
Gary Lineker has commented on Salah’s situation, describing it as “a little bit sad.”
He added that the Egyptian forward had simply got emotional after limited playing time.
Lineker expressed hope that Salah’s legacy at Liverpool would not be damaged.
He suggested that a resolution, possibly including an apology, could allow Salah to leave on good terms before heading to the Africa Cup of Nations.
Lineker concluded that ending the nine-year spell on bad terms would be “awful” for a player who has contributed so much to Liverpool.