It has become a regular occurrence to see players across the globe linked with a move to Liverpool. But that perception changes somewhat when it involves a deal going in the opposite direction.
And when it comes to a player like Sadio Mane, when his future is discussed then it gains even more attention. This latest rumour is no different.
According to Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, Bayern Munich sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has held talks with Mane’s agent over a possible move this summer. It has been claimed that Bayern are keen to make a “statement signing” this summer, with Mane a target.
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The report states that there are yet to be any negotiations between Liverpool and Bayern over a deal. It has also been claimed that talks between the Reds and Mane over a possible extension are “difficult”.
And if that wasn’t enough, it’s also being claimed that Mane is “annoyed” with Liverpool for focusing more on Mohamed Salah’s contract rather than his own. Salah’s current deal is also set to run out in 2023, the same summer as Mane.
It must be stressed that these rumours are just that at the moment - rumours. Purely speculation with nothing concrete to focus for the time being.
However, it’s very likely that the future of Mane will have been discussed at some level within the Anfield hierarchy. Any player who is entering the final 18 months of their deal should be a key point of focus - whether a new deal is offered or if it’s time to cash in while there’s still a chance.
The other option is to let Mane leave on a free transfer in 2023. You suspect that is not a path Liverpool would want to take if they had the choice.
Let’s be honest, you’d be surprised if a club like Bayern was not interested in signing a player of Mane’s ability when he has just a year left on his deal. Liverpool did the same thing with Thiago Alcantara in 2020, and there are countless other examples from clubs across Europe.
Regardless of whether or not Bayern are interested in Mane, Liverpool do have a big decision to make. At the age of 30, his market value is going to be considerably lower than it would have been a couple of years ago.
This is not to say that Liverpool will be actively thinking about selling Mane. But a problem may emerge if he refuses to sign a new deal. What do Liverpool do then?
That would leave them with the option of either selling him this summer, or letting him go on a free in a year’s time. Neither of those are what Liverpool or Klopp and co will want - far from it.
It all boils down to what Mane himself decides he wants to do next. Were he to agree to a new deal, then none of this speculation matters - but if he doesn’t? Then some tricky decisions will have to be made.
