The 31-year-old Reds talisman just agreed to a new three-year contract in 2022, but in the latter hours of the summer transfer window, Saudia Arabia made a £150 million approach for him. It is not predicted that he will receive any further attention in January, but at the conclusion of the 2023–2024 season, ambitious Saudi Pro League clubs are expected to retarget him. Barnes is certain that Salah will continue to light up Anfield beyond this season, despite the outside noise. Salah has had an incredible start to the season, scoring 10 goals in only 12 Premier League games.
During a Quality Street sustainability campaign, Barnes commented on Salah’s situation, acknowledging Salah’s hero status among Muslims worldwide and the potential interest from Saudi Arabia. However, Barnes emphasized Salah’s expressed desire to remain at Liverpool for the duration of his contract, expecting Saudi Arabia’s opportunity to arise in the future, although the timing remains uncertain.
Barnes anticipates Salah staying with Liverpool for the next couple of years, unless circumstances change. He highlighted Salah’s age, indicating that a move might not happen imminently in January or the following summer, particularly considering he would be 32 or 33 at the contract’s end.
Despite Barnes’ expectation of Salah staying, Liverpool is preparing for a potential record-breaking bid and has been devising a backup plan centered around Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane, as per Mirror Football reports. The club, financially capable due to the potential profits from Salah’s departure, faces complications due to Sane’s former association with Manchester City, who are reportedly monitoring Sane’s status at Bayern Munich. City might be interested in reacquiring the winger they sold to the Bundesliga club in 2020.
Sane has shown impressive form in the 2023/24 season, amassing eight goals and six assists in just 11 league matches for Thomas Tuchel’s side. His previous stint at Manchester City spanned four years and 135 appearances, during which he scored 35 goals.