Liverpool are at a pivotal juncture where three of their stars are concerned – Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah. The trio’s deals with the club are set to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season, and if any or all of them were to depart, it would be considered a blow. Therefore, Liverpool must do all they can to retain them.
Trent Alexander-Arnold
Trent Alexander-Arnold, a product of Liverpool’s famed youth academy, has redefined the role of a right-back with his range of passing and ability to create chances. His vision, crossing accuracy, and set-piece proficiency have been instrumental in the success Liverpool are having domestically and in Europe.
Losing him would not only create a void in the defence, but it would also have an impact on the team from an attacking sense. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure would also be a loss because he’s come through the youth system and is a Liverpool boy.
Virgil van Dijk
Since arriving at Anfield, Virgil van Dijk has become the leader in Liverpool’s defence and the team. His aerial dominance, ability to read the game, and how he marshals the backline all went towards Liverpool turning into one of the most defensively sound teams on the planet.
The Dutchman’s influence extends beyond his defensive duties; he instils confidence throughout and mentors younger players. As with Alexander-Arnold, if you lose Van Dijk, you not only lose a defender, you lose much more than that.
Mo Salah
Mo Salah’s goal-scoring ability and his involvement in goals that Liverpool score, continues to be nothing short of extraordinary. He’s one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers who can always be relied upon on in the big moments. Salah also continues to be highly marketable, which enhances Liverpool as a brand. With the Egyptian’s goals and assists this season alone setting him apart from the rest, losing him would be a blow because of how important his direct goal involvements have been in Liverpool’s title challenge.
Extending the contracts of Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Salah is not merely about retaining their talent; it’s a strategic move to ensure continuity and sustained success. The departure of such integral figures could then lead to a period of transition, which could disrupt matters on the pitch. Replacing world-class players is also increasingly difficult and costly.
Financial Implications of Losing These Players
The financial implications of losing these players, especially on free transfers, are significant. The club wouldn’t receive a penny for any of them, and they’d then face inflated prices in the market trying to find suitable replacements. Football betting markets have Liverpool as the team to beat with Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Salah available, even in the title race, but that would change if they were to lose them in the summer.
Liverpool’s recent success has been built on many things, and the contributions of these three players have been a factor. Ensuring their stay at Anfield continues for just a bit longer will be crucial if the club are to build off this season, which should end with them lifting their second Premier League title.
