Downey: “Contract delays could disrupt Liverpool’s trophy push”
Liverpool Contract Renewals: Concern Grows Over Salah, Van Dijk and Trent Delays
Contract renewals at Liverpool FC have become a major concern for fans, with key players Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold yet to agree on new deals. The topic was discussed in-depth on the Transfer Show podcast by Trev Downey and Dave Davis, who expressed growing anxiety about the lack of progress.
The hosts emphasised that securing these core players for the future is essential for Arne Slot’s plans as Liverpool’s new manager. But with negotiations dragging on, they questioned whether the club is risking unsettling the dressing room.
Liverpool’s Contract Situation: A Risk of Unrest?
The delay in securing contract renewals for Van Dijk, Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold could become a significant issue if not addressed soon. Speaking on the podcast, Dave Davis said:
“I’m still a bit astonished that we have not talked about one contract being resolved. That’s starting to worry me a bit.”
This sense of frustration is shared by many Liverpool fans, who fear that the uncertainty could affect player morale and performance. Van Dijk, Salah, and Trent are three of Liverpool’s most important players, and the club’s ambition to return to the top of the Premier League and compete in the Champions League hinges on keeping them happy and motivated.
Trev Downey echoed these concerns, pointing out that the lack of movement on contracts could create toxicity within the squad:
“Players themselves will be talking about it. They’re not delicate flowers. They’ll be bantering about the contract situations among themselves.”
If these delays continue, it could lead to a sense of unease in the dressing room. Players like Van Dijk and Salah—who have contributed so much to Liverpool’s success—may start to feel disrespected if the club doesn’t make their future a priority.
Mohamed Salah: The Most Urgent Contract Situation?
One of the most pressing concerns is Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian forward has been a talismanic figure for Liverpool since his arrival in 2017, scoring over 180 goals for the club. However, his contract situation has been a topic of discussion for some time, and no resolution appears to be in sight.
Dave Davis suggested that Salah may eventually lose patience if negotiations don’t move forward:
“There will come a point where these players might start to think, ‘Are they taking the piss? I’m the best player in the world in my position—what’s going on?'”
Salah’s importance to Arne Slot’s new-look Liverpool cannot be overstated. His leadership, consistency, and experience are vital for a team in transition. If the club fails to secure his future, it could send the wrong message to both fans and the rest of the squad.
Virgil van Dijk: Liverpool’s Defensive Leader Needs Clarity
Another key player awaiting a contract renewal is Virgil van Dijk. The Dutch defender has been the heart of Liverpool’s backline since joining from Southampton in 2018, transforming the team’s defensive fortunes.
However, the lack of clarity regarding his contract renewal has raised eyebrows. Trev Downey highlighted the importance of keeping Van Dijk at the club for the long term:
“Virgil is one of the best defenders in the world. Keeping him happy and settled is critical for Liverpool’s success.”
Van Dijk has been a leader on and off the pitch, and losing him would be a devastating blow. His experience and presence are invaluable, especially with a relatively young squad adapting to Arne Slot’s new tactical approach.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Future Captain in Limbo?
Perhaps the most concerning contract delay is Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Scouse-born right-back has been tipped as a future captain and remains one of Liverpool’s most prized assets. His versatility, creativity, and leadership qualities make him a cornerstone of the club’s future.
Yet, like Salah and Van Dijk, Trent remains in limbo regarding a new deal. Dave Davis suggested that the lack of movement on Trent’s contract could be a sign of deeper issues within the club’s hierarchy:
“I just have my concerns about this Trent thing. It’s getting to the stage where a resolution might be best for everyone.”
Securing Trent’s future would send a strong message to the rest of the squad and the fans that Liverpool is committed to its long-term vision. If Arne Slot wants to build a team capable of sustained success, keeping Trent happy should be a priority.
The Consequences of Further Delays
Both Downey and Davis agreed that the ongoing delays could have serious consequences if not addressed soon. Trev Downey pointed out that these unresolved contracts could disrupt Liverpool’s push for major trophies:
“The uncertainty adds to the toxicity. We can’t afford to limp into the second half of the season with contracts still unresolved.”
The longer the club waits to resolve these key renewals, the more likely it is that other clubs will start circling. Players like Salah, Van Dijk, and Trent would have no shortage of suitors if they were to become available.
Liverpool Must Act Fast to Avoid Further Disruption
The Transfer Show podcast made it clear that Liverpool’s contract renewal situation needs urgent attention. The uncertainty surrounding Van Dijk, Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold could create instability within the squad and harm Arne Slot’s efforts to build a competitive team.
As Dave Davis put it:
“What a boost it would be to the season if one of the big names renewed.”
With the club in transition under a new manager, securing the futures of its star players is more important than ever. Liverpool must act fast to ensure that Van Dijk, Salah, and Trent remain integral parts of the club’s long-term plans.