The future of Mohamed Salah has dominated the headlines in the build-up to Liverpool’s clash against Newcastle United this afternoon.
Salah has been the subject of renewed interest from the Saudi Pro League with Al Ittihad reportedly offering the Egyptian the chance to double his weekly salary.
On Friday, Reds boss Jurgen Klopp was forced to play down speculation of Salah, who has two remaining on his contract, leaving Anfield.
“There is nothing to talk about, he is a Liverpool player,” said the German. “He is essential and will be. There is nothing there. My life philosophy [is] I think about a problem when I have it.”
However, fresh reports from Saudi Arabia on the morning of the game are potentially major.
KSA Sports TV has sensationally claimed the 31-year-old will play his final match for the Reds at St James’ Park today before heading to Dubai to undergo his medical in preparation for a move to Al Ittihad.
Aside from handling the Salah speculation, Klopp could also be without one of his key defenders versus Newcastle. The German has confirmed Ibrahima Konate, who has started both opening games against Chelsea and Bournemouth, is a doubt because of a muscular injury.
Here’s Liverpool’s predicted starting XI:
1. GK: Alisson
Liverpool’s No1.
2. RB: Trent Alexander-Arnold
The right-back came off with a knock last weekend but he has since recovered and Klopp confirmed he will start.
3. CB: Virgil van Dijk
The Liverpool skipper will be key against Newcastle.
4. CB: Joe Gomez
With a doubt over Ibrahim Konate’s fitness, Klopp is likely to turn to Gomez.