Liverpool are holding off on approving the departure of an “unstoppable” star as they await clarity on Mohamed Salah’s future.

 

 

Mohamed Salah’s long-term future at Liverpool has remained uncertain ever since his heated reaction following the clash with Leeds United late last year.

In response, Arne Slot left Salah out of the squad for the game against Inter Milan. The 33-year-old later returned as a substitute, making an impact against Brighton & Hove Albion in December. Despite that, speculation continues over a possible exit in 2026, with questions still surrounding the Egyptian star while he remains away on international duty at AFCON.

Once Salah returns, his decision regarding his future could have major implications for one of his teammates. Many Liverpool supporters are eager to see Federico Chiesa given more minutes, but it has become increasingly clear that Slot does not view the Italian winger as a consistent starter.

Although Chiesa featured in the narrow win over Wolves, he was surprisingly left out in the following match despite Liverpool’s limited attacking options, making way for a right-back instead. With the January transfer window now open, rumours around Chiesa’s future are gathering pace.

According to Italian outlet Gazzetta, Juventus have approved a move to bring their former player back to Turin. At Liverpool, however, the situation is described as “amber” rather than green. The Reds are reportedly open to selling Chiesa but are waiting to hear confirmation that Salah intends to stay at Anfield for the rest of the 2025/26 season once he returns from AFCON.

Importantly, neither a loan deal nor a cut-price sale for Chiesa — once labelled “unstoppable” during his Juventus days — is believed to be under consideration. With Liverpool seemingly open to his departure, attention is now firmly on Salah and the stance he adopts upon his return.

Salah has been in outstanding form for Egypt at the tournament, scoring three goals in three appearances so far. He has played a key role in helping his nation progress from the group stage and was again on the scoresheet in the Round of 16.

Egypt are set to face Ivory Coast in the quarter-finals on Saturday, January 10. If they reach the final, Salah would not be expected back at Liverpool until after the showpiece match on January 18.