Reports: Liverpool veteran eager to sign a new contract, but one issue is causing a delay.

As Trent Alexander-Arnold appears poised to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer, Liverpool fans remain hopeful that two other key players nearing the end of their contracts—Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk—won’t follow him out of Anfield.

With just three months left on their current deals, time is running out for Liverpool to secure the futures of these long-serving stars. However, renowned journalist David Ornstein recently reported that the club is optimistic about keeping both players, while sources in Salah’s homeland suggest contract talks have progressed further than ever before.

Salah is reportedly eager to stay at Liverpool, but negotiations have hit a roadblock due to a disagreement over the length of the proposed contract. The club is hesitant to offer a long-term deal given that the forward turns 33 in June, whereas Salah is seeking more than just a short-term extension.

Financial terms don’t appear to be an issue, as Salah, Liverpool’s highest-paid player on £350,000 per week, is reportedly satisfied with the club’s offer in that regard. However, the club’s reluctance to commit to a longer deal could prove problematic. A one-year extension might only prolong uncertainty, whereas a two-year contract would allow Liverpool’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes, ample time to plan for a future without one of the club’s all-time greats.

Despite concerns about his age, Salah continues to deliver at an elite level, netting 32 goals this season and showing no signs of decline. Given his continued excellence, Liverpool would be wise to ensure he remains at Anfield beyond the 2025/26 season. Hopefully, both sides can find common ground to keep the Egyptian King in red for a little while longer.