‘If He Ends Up Leaving…’ – Paul Merson Names Two Players Liverpool ‘Have to Keep’ This Summer

Paul Merson emphasised the importance of Liverpool retaining two key players as Arne Slot prepares to lead the team next season.

With Jurgen Klopp stepping aside, the transition to the new manager is crucial, especially amidst rumours suggesting Mo Salah might consider a move to the Saudi Pro League this summer.

In his weekly Premier League predictions column for Sportskeeda, the Sky Sports pundit wrote: “I think Mohamed Salah goes to Saudi this summer and Arne Slot will have a huge task on his hands to replace the Egyptian’s goals, if he ends up leaving.

“A lot of coaches and backroom staff from the Jurgen Klopp era will also be on their way out, so the Dutchman has his work cut out for him.

“They have to keep Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker, though, as these two players form the spine of their backline.”

Liverpool have weathered the departures of numerous legends over the years while maintaining their competitive edge in major competitions.

Yet, the potential departure of key players like Salah, Van Dijk, and Alisson, coupled with Klopp’s eventual exit, could pose a significant challenge, potentially disrupting the team’s stability.

With Salah and Van Dijk’s contracts set to expire in June 2025, their futures are more imminent compared to Alisson, who still has two more years on his current deal.

The impact of the Dutch defender and Brazilian goalkeeper joining Liverpool within seven months of each other cannot be overstated.