Liverpool face a challenging future with two of their star players, Mohamed Salah and Ibrahima Konate, potentially leaving in 2026, according to recent reports.
The Premier League champions have been active in the transfer market, but the looming departures could test their squad depth.
The Reds have invested heavily this summer, spending over 263 million pounds to bolster their roster under head coach Arne Slot. The Dutchman, who guided Liverpool to their 20th Premier League title in the 2024/25 season, has received strong backing from Fenway Sports Group.
New signings like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez have strengthened the team, positioning them as serious contenders for both the Premier League and Champions League. “We’re building a squad to compete at the highest level,” Slot said after the title win, emphasizing the club’s ambition.
However, the future of Mohamed Salah, a cornerstone of Liverpool’s success, remains uncertain. The Egyptian forward, who signed a two-year contract extension in April 2025, delivered one of his finest seasons, scoring 28 Premier League goals to secure the title. Despite his commitment, Football Transfers reported that Salah is “ready” to join the Saudi Pro League in 2026.
“Long coveted by the Saudi Pro League, which sees him as a marquee signing, serious interest earlier this year came from the Gulf,” the report stated.
Liverpool’s significant spending, including over 300 million euros on new players, suggests they are preparing for his potential exit.
Meanwhile, Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation has raised concerns. The French centre-back, whose deal expires in 2026, has attracted attention from Real Madrid.
Spanish outlet Fichajes claimed that Real Madrid, under manager Xabi Alonso, have “already finalised their first signing for 2026” in Konate, viewing him as the ideal leader for their defense. “Real Madrid have identified the French centre-back as the ideal player to lead the defence in the new project,” the report noted.
Konate rejected a lucrative offer from the Saudi Pro League in July 2025, prioritizing a move to Europe, according to Liverpool.com. A recent post on X from @DeadlineDayLive, stated, “Liverpool have offered Ibrahima Konate a new contract to fend off interest from Real Madrid,” but negotiations have reportedly stalled.
Liverpool have already lost Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer, while captain Virgil van Dijk joined Salah in signing a new deal.
The potential departures of Salah and Konate could force the Reds to dip into the market again, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Ajax’s Jorrel Hato linked as possible defensive reinforcements. “We’re always planning for the future,” Slot said, hinting at further squad adjustments.
As Liverpool aim to defend their title and compete in Europe, the possible exits of two key players loom large. Fans will hope the club’s proactive transfer strategy and Slot’s leadership can maintain their dominance despite the challenges ahead.
