Liverpool's Transfer Tug-of-War: Will Salah Stay or Move in January?

Richard Hughes to negotiate with Ramy Abbas.

Rising uncertainties and pivotal talks

Liverpool are bracing for decisive, face-to-face talks with Mohamed Salah's representative, who is currently away with Egypt's squad at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Doubts about Salah's future at Liverpool emerged earlier this month after his pointed comments following the Reds' 3-3 draw with Leeds, in which he claimed the club had abandoned him.

Salah was later left out of Liverpool's squad for the Champions League game against Inter Milan, but the 33-year-old returned to feature as a substitute in the 2-0 win over Brighton, setting up a goal.

Outlook and implications for Liverpool

After the win over Brighton, Liverpool manager Arne Slot said all parties had moved on from the Leeds incident.

That win marked Salah's last appearance for Liverpool before joining Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations, with many predicting this brief spell would be his final chapter for the club he left Roma to join.

But with Isaac's injury, Salah is expected to stay at Anfield at least for the season's remainder, even though Liverpool could be without him until mid-January if Egypt reach the Africa Cup final.

With Salah focused on on-field matters, the club's sporting director, Richard Hughes, is expected to handle off-field duties.

The Daily Mail said Hughes will hold decisive, face-to-face talks with Salah's agent, Ramy Abbas, as the player remains with Egypt.

Salah's name has been strongly linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League in 2026, either in January or in the summer.

Negotiations between Hughes and Abbas are expected to settle Salah's future, whether he stays through the season or departs for a new destination.

Humor

Punchline 1: If this transfer saga paid a fee, it would be in patience and espresso.

Punchline 2: Salah's future in January? The only thing certain is that the transfer window won't be boring.