Liverpool's Likely January Transfer Budget if Mo Salah Leaves and John W. Henry's Huge Net Worth

By Mirror Sport Reporter | Published: January 3, 2026

Liverpool FC faces a pivotal January transfer window amid swirling speculation over Mohamed Salah's future. The Egyptian superstar, whose contract expires in summer 2026, has been linked with blockbuster moves to Saudi Arabia, with Al-Ittihad reportedly ready to shatter records for his signature. As talks stall, fans are dissecting what Salah's potential departure could mean for the Reds' budget under owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG), led by principal owner John W. Henry.

Salah's Exit: A £150m Windfall?

Experts estimate Liverpool could command £100-150 million for Salah in January, despite his age (33 turning 34). His 20+ goals this season underline his value, but FSG's pragmatic approach—prioritizing sales to fund reinvestment—suggests they'd cash in rather than lose him for free. Sources close to Anfield indicate the club is already scouting wingers like Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz (£100m release clause) and PSV's Johan Bakayoko as replacements.

Without a sale, Liverpool's January kitty is projected at £50-70 million, bolstered by Champions League revenues and player trading profits from summer deals like Luis Diaz's extension. A Salah exit could swell this to £200 million+, enabling ambitious bids for a No. 6 midfielder and centre-back to fortify Arne Slot's squad.

John W. Henry's £5.7 Billion Empire

Backing this firepower is Henry's colossal net worth, pegged at £5.7 billion by Forbes. The Boston Red Sox owner, who acquired Liverpool for £300 million in 2010, has transformed it into a global powerhouse valued at £4.4 billion. Critics decry FSG's austerity, but Henry champions self-sustainability: "We're not a sugar daddy club; we build dynasties."

Recent investments—a £10 million training ground upgrade and data analytics overhaul—signal intent. Yet, with Salah's saga unresolved, pressure mounts on Henry to flex his fortune. Slot remains optimistic: "We're building something special, with or without Mo."

The window opens January 1—will Liverpool splash the cash or play it safe?

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