Liverpool has been told that with Mohamed Salah still on the team, they can contend for the Premier League championship this year.
Despite significant interest from the Saudi Pro League to make Salah their biggest signing ever, Liverpool insisted that he was not for sale.
Al Ittihad had been desperate to snap up the Egypt international and it’s reported they were willing to form out a fee totalling a world-record £215million.
But with the Saudi Pro League transfer window coming to an end on Thursday night and no bid accepted, Salah is staying put…. for now.
While Liverpool might have kept their prized asset, they might have simply staved off the inevitable with Saudi clubs set to make another move next summer.
Al Ittihad are one of the teams expected to push for the Reds superstar.
But while Liverpool still retain Salah’s services, they have been told they’re in a better position to beat Manchester City to the title than Arsenal.
That is the verdict from ex-Liverpool star Jermaine Pennant, who is quietly confident about the Reds’ chances this season.
He said on Kick Off: “Minimum [expectation] is top four. The way we have started so far is ten times better than how Liverpool started last season.
“They look solid. Little bit worried about the defence but going forward, they look strong.
“The midfield is a really good midfield now. Young, energetic, [Dominik] Szoboszlai looks very good.
“Keeping Mo is not only going to be good for Liverpool but good for everything to do with Liverpool.
The players will see Mo there, they know what he will give you. Goals, assists… and with him staying there, they should know be looking to challenge Manchester City like they have for the last five years, bar last season.
“At the moment, I’d say Liverpool are in a better place than Arsenal. I’ll say in the games so far, they have played a lot better than Arsenal.
“Mikel Arteta is still tweaking… he is trying to fit people into the team.
“Write Manchester United off, because they are all over the shop. I think if Liverpool played Arsenal, Liverpool are the better team and would be favourites going into that game.”