Two top sources have confirmed Liverpool are in discussions with Mohamed Salah over a new contract, though there is a huge chasm between the demands of both parties and a nightmare scenario is now a distinct possibility.

It was widely reported this week that Liverpool would step up contract negotiations with Mohamed Salah during the November international break. The 32-year-old was left out of the Egypt squad with the Pharaohs already qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Mohamed Salah will not join the Egypt squad for this month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which serves as a major boost for Liverpool. Salah’s fitness is of paramount importance to Liverpool – hammered home with a goal and assist in Saturday’s 2-0 win over Aston Villa – particularly as backup Federico Chiesa is still sidelined through injury.