Glen Johnson criticizes Liverpool’s handling of Salah’s contract situation
Former Liverpool defender Glen Johnson has criticized the club’s approach to Mohamed Salah’s contract situation, arguing that allowing the Egyptian star to leave as a free agent would be a costly mistake. Salah, whose future has been the subject of intense speculation, is yet to agree on a new deal with the club, and his contract is set to expire at the end of the 2024/25 season.
Salah’s situation has dominated headlines in English football over the past few months, with many questioning Liverpool’s reluctance to secure the forward’s future.
Johnson believes that failing to capitalize on the demand for the 32-year-old could lead to a significant loss for the club.
He insists that Liverpool should have taken steps to cash in on their talisman before his contract runs out.
“I believe Mo will leave, and the other two will stay [Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk],” Johnson told UK bookmaker Betfred, as reported by Liverpool.com.
“Each of them is going to have an endless list of clubs that will want to sign them if they’re available as a free agent.”
Johnson emphasized that Salah, with his talent and reputation, will attract interest from top clubs around the world.
He further criticized Liverpool’s strategy, suggesting that allowing such a high-caliber player to leave for nothing would be a significant oversight.
“If Liverpool knows that any of them aren’t going to sign a new contract, then I believe they’ve been foolish to not cash in.
You can’t have players of their calibre walking out on a free,” he added.
Salah has been a key figure for Liverpool since joining the club in 2017, helping them secure major honors, including the Premier League and Champions League titles.
Despite turning 32, his form has remained consistent, and he continues to be an essential part of the squad.
The forward’s situation has sparked concerns among Liverpool supporters, who fear losing one of their most influential players without any financial return.
The prospect of Salah leaving Anfield without Liverpool receiving a transfer fee has prompted debate over the club’s management of player contracts.
Johnson’s comments add to the growing sentiment that Liverpool may have missed an opportunity to secure a substantial fee for one of their most valuable assets.
With the 2024/25 season underway and Salah’s future still undecided, Liverpool faces mounting pressure to resolve the situation.
Whether they can convince the Egyptian star to commit his future to the club or risk losing him on a free transfer remains to be seen.
