Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, has reassured fans of the players’ “total commitment” despite the looming expiration of three key players’ contracts in 2025. The potential departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah next summer has left Liverpool supporters feeling uneasy.
During a recent interview, Hughes was asked about the contract situation. He chose not to delve into the specifics, emphasizing that contractual matters are private between the club and players. However, he emphasized that the top priority is ensuring the players’ unwavering dedication to the team’s cause for the upcoming season.
Another contract question that needs to be addressed is the status of goalkeeper Adrian. Although his contract with the club has officially expired, he is still listed as a Liverpool player on the official website. While reports suggest that he has agreed to rejoin his former club Real Betis, no official deal has been confirmed yet.
In the immediate future, Liverpool’s focus will be on securing Alexander-Arnold’s contract extension. However, negotiations won’t take place during his time at the European Championships. The club aims to finalize the deal as soon as possible to avoid distractions during the upcoming season. A similar approach will be taken with Van Dijk, although it is less likely that other top clubs would attempt to poach the Liverpool captain.
Salah is another significant player whose contract expires next summer. However, it is less probable that Liverpool will offer him a new deal unless he accepts significantly reduced terms or has an exceptional season. Unless these conditions are met, it is expected that Salah will leave Liverpool next year as a legend.
Additionally, Nat Phillips’ contract is also set to run out in 12 months. Extending his current deal would likely increase his value in the transfer market. Phillips has expressed his willingness to “consider” rejoining Cardiff permanently. His manager, Erol Bulut, also stated his desire to see Phillips at Cardiff again during last season’s loan.
In conclusion, Liverpool’s sporting director remains confident in the players’ commitment despite the impending contract expirations. The club will prioritize securing contract extensions for key players like Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk while also considering the future of players like Salah and Phillips. The upcoming season will undoubtedly be a crucial period for Liverpool as they navigate these contractual situations and strive for success on the pitch.