Mo Salah accused of playing 'mind games' with Liverpool over new contract as ex-Reds star admits in-form Egyptian 'can do what he wants' in bid to seal mega-money extension

With Salah's current deal set to expire in the summer of 2025, speculation around his future has been a focal point for fans and pundits alike. The Egyptian forward, arguably Liverpool’s best player in the Premier League era, recently stirred controversy by publicly criticising the club's apparent lack of effort in securing his services for the long term.

Salah’s statements to the press regarding his contract situation have been interpreted by former Liverpool defender Glen Johnson as a strategic move to put pressure on the board and negotiate better terms.

Speaking to Betfred,Johnson said: "There’s clearly a lot of games going on and Mo knows that he’s in a powerful position. He’s playing the game and probably wants to stay, but he’s just using all these tactics to get himself an extra few years more than Liverpool want to give him or whether it’s money or whatever.

"He knows he’s in the driving seat and can pretty much do what he wants. He may feel like talking to the press is his last resort and so he can let people know that he wants to stay."

In response to the escalating narrative, Liverpool have reportedly taken steps to address the contract impasse. According to The Athletic, the club have presented an opening offer to Salah’s representatives, indicating their desire to retain the forward beyond the end of his current contract. However, the negotiations appear to be far from resolved, with both parties yet to reach a definitive agreement.

Despite the contract drama, Salah remains focused on his on-field responsibilities and has been in sensational form this campaign with 16 goals and 12 assists in 27 appearances across all competitions. Liverpool fans will be eager to see their star player in action when the Reds face Fulham at Anfield on Saturday in a key Premier League clash.