Man City offers Mohamed Salah hint as Arne Slot confirms Liverpool talks
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Man City Offers Mohamed Salah Hint as Arne Slot Confirms Liverpool Talks
Manchester City's decision to include Omar Marmoush in their Champions League squad has sparked speculation about Mohamed Salah's future at Liverpool, providing a potential hint amid ongoing transfer rumors[5]. As Salah returns from AFCON duty with Egypt, manager Arne Slot has confirmed talks regarding his availability, emphasizing the star's importance to the team[2][1].
Salah's Egypt was eliminated in the AFCON semifinals by Senegal and faces Nigeria in the third-place playoff on Saturday, after which he is expected back for Liverpool's midweek Champions League clash with Marseille[1][2]. Slot praised Salah glowingly in his press conference, stating, "I am happy that he comes back. Mo has been so important for this club, for me"[1][2]. Despite a earlier public spat where Salah accused the club of throwing him "under the bus" and claimed a broken relationship with Slot, the Dutch manager insists issues are resolved, with Salah having returned for a 2-0 win over Brighton before departing[2].
The 33-year-old's return could unlock key January moves, particularly Federico Chiesa's potential €20 million departure to Juventus—up from an initial €12 million discussion and aligning with his Estimated Transfer Value[1]. Liverpool, who signed Chiesa for €12 million 18 months ago, had been hesitant due to his bench impact under Slot, but Salah's availability shifts dynamics amid injury concerns like Alexander Isak's broken leg[1][4].
Rumors of Salah targeting a loan exit in January 2026 persist, but Liverpool plans no sale this window, with his contract running to 2027[3][6][7]. Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher predicts a possible summer 2026 farewell at Anfield's final game, calling it a "perfect, choreographed send-off" after Salah's iconic era, though January retention is essential given squad needs[4]. Slot acknowledged performances must improve despite an 11-game unbeaten run since November[2]. Liverpool eyes free-agent targets like Marc Guehi for summer depth[6][8].
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