Liverpool is enjoying a stellar season, sitting comfortably at the top of the Premier League with a six-point lead over second-placed Arsenal and a game in hand.
The Reds have also secured their spot in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 after topping their group. Additionally, they remain in contention for the League Cup, trailing Tottenham by a goal in the semi-final but with a chance to turn things around at Anfield.
However, despite their on-field success, concerns are growing over the futures of three star players: Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. All three are in the final year of their contracts, and despite efforts from the club, none have signed extensions yet.
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has added to the uncertainty with a bold prediction. He believes none of the trio will renew their contracts and could leave depending on how Liverpool’s season ends.
“Call me a cynic, but I don’t think any of them will sign,” Merson said. “I think they wait and see. If they win the league, I don’t know where Liverpool goes from there.”
Merson believes that winning the Premier League, especially in front of their home fans, could be the perfect farewell for Salah, Van Dijk, and Alexander-Arnold. Having already won the Champions League and Premier League before, they might feel they have achieved everything at Liverpool.
“Everybody, when Liverpool won the league in COVID, it wasn’t the same,” Merson explained. “You watch them lift the trophy, the Kop wasn’t there, the fans weren’t there. If they go and win it this time in front of their fans, I just think Salah, Van Dijk, and Trent have won the Champions League, they’ve won the Premier League in front of the fans—which will be a lot different, believe me. I don’t see them signing.”
The former Arsenal midfielder also pointed out the financial aspect of the situation.
“We’re talking 18 months now, whatever that may be, because they get a pay rise when they sign. They don’t sign for the same, that might be £50,000 a week more. £50,000 a week over 18 months is a lot of money. For me, I’m not sure they sign if they win the Premier League.”
If Merson’s prediction comes true, Liverpool could face a major rebuild in the summer. Losing three world-class players in one window would be a huge challenge for manager Arne Slot and the club’s leadership.
For now, Liverpool’s focus remains on finishing the season strong. With a potential Premier League title, a Champions League run, and a League Cup final within reach, the next few months could shape the club’s future.
