Jurgen Klopp told the media on Monday that talks are ongoing regarding a new contract for Mohamed Salah while Fabrizio Romano has reported on interest from Barcelona.
The Mirror reported over the weekend that the Egyptian King is close to agreeing a contract extension with the Reds but that story has been rubbished by Fabrizio Romano.
Jürgen Klopp has seemingly dispelled the idea that Salah and Liverpool are close to an agreement as well, telling the media that talks are ongoing but Anfield remains in the player’s heart.
Salah contract extension no closer but Barcelona not on his list of priorities
Under Xavi, Barcelona have regained the joy in their football and are in a much better place after their win over Sevilla which took them to second in the table with a game in hand over Atletico Madrid and Sevilla.
The likes of Gavi and Pedri, part of a new generation of La Masia graduates, have helped Barca play free-flowing football for the first time since Lionel Messi left the club.
Despite the mood surrounding Barcelona being more positive recently, Salah is not swayed and he remains focused on signing a new contract with the Reds but neither party is ready to give up ground in negotiations.
On the 15th of March, Fabrizio Romano reported that Salah is “not planning for [a] La Liga move” and that while talks were still ‘broken’, Liverpool held all the cards.
Now, discussing Robert Lewandowski’s willingness to move to Barcelona, the Italian journalist added that Salah is not currently open to the thought of moving to Camp Nou and is still determined to renew with Liverpool.
Liverpool and Salah need to reach a compromise as soon as possible
The Mirror’s report claimed Salah was willing to sacrifice earning at the same rate as Cristiano Ronaldo in return for an extra year on his contract but it would seem there was little truth to their report based on what Jurgen Klopp has said.
Speaking to the press ahead of Liverpool’s Champions League quarterfinal first leg against Benfica, the German manager confirms that talks are still ongoing between Salah and the club.
He said: “There’s nothing new to say. The decisive parties are talking to each other and that is all I need.”
The cost of replacing Salah far outweighs the cost of retaining his service and with it comes the promise of silverware which could be fulfilled as soon as this season with Liverpool still competing in three competitions having already won the Carabao Cup.