The dawn of the Arne Slot era at Liverpool has been immediately clouded by a significant Mohamed Salah dilemma that threatens to define the club's summer transfer strategy.
According to reports from France, the Reds have been offered the chance to sign Paris Saint-Germain striker Hugo Ekitike. However, the proposed deal comes with a major complication that directly involves the Egyptian King.
PSG are reportedly insistent that any deal for the 21-year-old forward must include Mohamed Salah moving in the opposite direction, creating a formidable early test for incoming manager Slot.
The situation is further complicated by Salah's contract status. The 31-year-old superstar has entered the final year of his current deal at Anfield, placing the club in a precarious position. Liverpool must now decide whether to cash in on their prized asset or risk losing him for nothing next summer.
Saudi Pro League clubs remain keenly interested in acquiring Salah's services, with Al-Ittihad having seen a £150 million bid rejected last summer. Their pursuit is expected to intensify during the current transfer window.
For new manager Slot, this represents his first major headache. The Dutch tactician must weigh the immediate impact of losing his most prolific attacker against the long-term financial implications and the opportunity to bring in a promising young talent like Ekitike.
The coming weeks will prove crucial in determining not only Salah's future but also the strategic direction of Liverpool's rebuild under their new leadership.
