Report: Barcelona Have Joined the Race to Sign Liverpool Star Amid Contract Uncertainty | OneFootball

Barcelona Eye Salah: What It Means for Liverpool’s Future

The rumour mill is abuzz as reports from Mundo Deportivo suggest that Barcelona are considering a sensational move for Mohamed Salah, potentially signing him as a free agent next summer. This news, tied closely to Salah’s comments about his uncertain contract situation at Liverpool, has sparked intense speculation among fans and analysts alike.

As Salah’s current deal approaches its final 18 months, Liverpool face a critical juncture in retaining one of their most iconic players. His departure would not only leave a gaping hole in the team but also mark a seismic shift in the club’s future ambitions.

Salah’s Contract Talks Stalled

Salah’s post-match interview with NBC Sports following Liverpool’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Southampton brought the spotlight firmly onto his contract status. The Egyptian winger revealed:

“Despite my hopes of remaining at Liverpool, I have not received any offers to extend my stay with the club.”

Photo: IMAGO

These remarks, coming off the back of his heroic performance where he netted twice to secure Liverpool’s comeback win, underline the precariousness of his situation. Salah’s current contract, which he signed in July 2022, made him Liverpool’s highest-paid player, earning over £350,000 per week. Yet with this deal set to expire at the end of the 2024-25 season, January 1st marks the date when Salah can legally negotiate with clubs outside England.

Barcelona’s Perspective on Salah

Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona are carefully considering whether Salah could fit into their plans. The Spanish publication highlighted the allure of signing a “world star” on a free transfer but also noted the challenges:

“The possibility of a world star of his (Salah’s) stature becoming a free agent has put the big clubs on alert… FC Barcelona has not been an exception. At the Barcelona club, for the moment, without any move to approach the Egyptian’s entourage, what has occurred is a logical debate about whether it would be wise to sign a player like Salah.”

A key concern for Barcelona lies in balancing their squad dynamics. Salah’s preferred position on the right flank could impact the development of 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, a prodigy regarded as the future of their attack.

Photo: IMAGO

Why Salah Is Irreplaceable at Liverpool

Since his arrival in 2017, Salah has redefined Liverpool’s attacking identity. His staggering tally of 223 goals in 367 appearances has etched his name among the club’s greatest-ever players. His contributions this season alone—leading the league in goal contributions—highlight his continued importance under Arne Slot’s tactical approach.

Slot, addressing the speculation in a pre-match press conference, reaffirmed Salah’s value:

“Mo is crucial to everything we do. He’s more than just a goalscorer—he’s a leader on and off the pitch. We hope he stays at the club he loves.”

Liverpool’s ability to retain Salah may depend on demonstrating their ambition to compete at the highest level, both domestically and in Europe. The departure of such a talismanic figure, especially on a free transfer, would be a bitter pill to swallow for fans.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the prospect of losing Mohamed Salah is not just about his on-pitch contributions but the message it sends about the club’s direction. Salah is more than a player—he symbolises an era of success that includes Champions League and Premier League titles.

The concern among fans is palpable. How did Liverpool allow this situation to arise? A proactive approach to extending Salah’s deal should have been prioritised long before his contract entered its final two years. Allowing him to negotiate freely with other clubs in January feels like a failure of foresight.

Barcelona’s interest, while flattering, raises questions about how Liverpool can replace Salah’s unique blend of skill, consistency, and leadership. Even with promising young players like Ben Doak waiting in the wings, expecting them to replicate Salah’s impact so soon is unrealistic.

Liverpool’s management must act swiftly to secure Salah’s future. Offering him a new deal not only solidifies the squad but also reassures fans and potential signings that the club remains committed to excellence. The ball is now firmly in Liverpool’s court to prove that they can continue building on the legacy Salah helped create.