Liverpool is addressing their stance on Mo Salah's potential transfer amid reported interest from Saudi Arabia, where there is anticipation regarding contract discussions following rumours of a substantial £480 million offer.

Liverpool's hopes of securing the Premier League title have all but faded following Saturday's 2-2 draw against West Ham United. One of the main talking points from the match arose off the pitch, as Reds manager Jurgen Klopp and forward Mohamed Salah were observed arguing on the touchline.

Salah, who was on the bench for the game at the London Stadium, was waiting to come on when he and Klopp exchanged words before Salah was guided away by teammates.

This incident has raised questions about Salah's future at Anfield, especially as he only has one year left on his contract after this season. Speculation surrounding Salah's future is likely to continue throughout the summer as we summarise the latest developments.

Liverpool 'expect' Salah to stay

According to a recent report from The Athletic, Liverpool are preparing for Salah to remain part of their squad next season. The club will undergo changes in the summer as Klopp departs, with Arne Slot expected to take over if a deal can be reached.

The report suggests that Salah has not expressed a desire to leave Anfield despite ongoing links with a move to the Saudi Pro League. Interest in Salah is still present but is described as 'less aggressive', with an understanding that he will stay with Liverpool until his contract expires. There is hope within the Saudi Pro League that Salah might not renew his deal with the Reds and could be available on a free transfer at the end of next season.

Hughes to lead Salah negotiations

Liverpool's new sporting director Richard Hughes will be responsible for initiating contract talks with Salah for a new deal. This is reported by the Times, which states that the club is keen to secure a new contract with Salah, who they see as a key player under Slot.

The 31-year-old first joined Liverpool in 2017 and has made 346 appearances, scoring 210 goals and providing 88 assists. He is the club's top scorer this season with 24 goals, and his 12 assists are second only to Darwin Nunez, who has 13.

Al-Ittihad's interest in 2023 and the '£480m contract offer'

Last summer, Liverpool rejected a bid of up to £150 million from Al-Ittihad for Salah. There were also reports of a lucrative contract offer from Al-Ittihad worth between £400m and £480m over three years. Whether Salah might consider such an offer this summer remains to be seen.

Should Liverpool sell Salah?

Despite recent dips in form, Salah remains one of Liverpool's standout players. His recent struggles have been shared by most of Klopp's squad since the return from the March international break.

It would make sense for Liverpool to retain Salah given his goal-scoring and assist contributions. However, if a new contract cannot be agreed upon this summer, the club may have to consider selling him to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

Replacing Salah's productivity will not be cheap, and given Liverpool's approach to the transfer market, they may need to raise funds to sign a suitable, long-term replacement.