It appears the Reds legend's time at Anfield is coming to an end, with serious interest from both Saudi Arabian and MLS clubs eager to see how the situation around the Egyptian will unfold after the Africa Cup of Nations.
Four – that's the exact number of goals Mohamed Salah has scored so far this Premier League season. While at this point last year, he already had 13 goals and was leading Liverpool towards the title, the entire club is currently struggling. They sit only in tenth place in the table and have managed just one win in their last five league matches.
Even though Slot's men started the current season with a win, their form has gradually declined. Unlike in the 2024/25 campaign, the Reds are struggling to outplay their opponents, expensive summer signings are still finding their feet, and the team from north-west England is missing strong personalities on the pitch.
Salah had been one of those key figures, but apart from a few exceptions, he has been quiet in front of goal and unable to replicate his outstanding form from previous years.
The lack of productivity from the 33-year-old Egyptian is playing a major role in the Reds' uncertain form. Just a year ago, it would have been hard to imagine a Liverpool lineup without him, but now, due to his poor performances, he's been dropped from the starting eleven.
In an effort to turn things around, the Dutch coach made a rather controversial decision. He benched a player who had only recently signed a new contract at Anfield in April and had been the team's standout star for years.
Without Salah in the starting lineup, Liverpool did relatively well, beating struggling West Ham 2-0 and drawing 1-1 with Sunderland. But when the "Egyptian King" didn't get on the pitch during a tight match with Leeds (3-3), his frustration was clear to see.
"For the first time in my career, I've been on the bench three games in a row, and I'm really disappointed. I've done a lot for Liverpool over the past few years, especially last season.
"Now I'm sitting on the bench and I don't know why. It feels like the club has thrown me under the bus," he told reporters after the final whistle at Elland Road.
The 47-year-old manager responded almost immediately, leaving Salah out of the squad for the Champions League match against Inter Milan. The Reds managed to win that game thanks to a penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai, and the Egyptian winger's future remains uncertain.
It's possible that before heading off to the Africa Cup of Nations, Salah could wear the red shirt for the last time against Brighton. "I want to enjoy that match because I don't know what will happen next. I'll say goodbye to the fans at Anfield and then leave for the Africa Cup of Nations," he said on the situation.
If the two-time Premier League winner really does leave Liverpool in the upcoming winter transfer window, it would spark a huge battle on the transfer market, especially among clubs from Saudi Arabia and the American MLS. It's no secret that the most successful Muslim footballer in history has long been on the radar of Saudi teams.
Al Ittihad showed interest in Salah two years ago, but currently have no room in their squad, with Karim Benzema as their main star. However, Benzema's contract expires in the summer, and if he leaves, the Liverpool legend could be his replacement. The club also has a great track record with Egyptian players, given their geographical proximity.
In 2024, Al Hilal also tried to sign the striker with 190 Premier League goals, but they too would need to make space in their squad. The right wing of Saudi Arabia's most successful club is currently occupied by Brazilian Malcom, one of the team's main stars.
On the other hand, Al Hilal and Liverpool have recent transfer dealings, with Darwin Nunez joining from Liverpool last summer, so there may be good relations between the clubs.
Another possible destination in the Saudi Professional League is Al Qadsiah, who are moving to a new 47,000-seat stadium, or the league's newcomer NEOM SC.
But MLS clubs are also showing strong interest in Salah.
The main contender is the club owned by British-Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour, San Diego. The shared Egyptian heritage between the owner and Salah could help facilitate the move. However, according to The Athletic, a transfer during the winter window is unlikely, mainly due to financial reasons. Still, it can't be completely ruled out, and San Diego will do everything possible to bring the winger to their squad.
Another possible destination for the former Roma player could be Chicago Fire, who tried to sign him before he renewed his contract with the Reds. Owner Joe Mansueto also attempted to bring in star Neymar, who ultimately chose to return to Santos, and Kevin De Bruyne, who preferred to stay in Europe and joined Napoli.
There's also the possibility of a move to the new Major League Soccer champions Inter Miami. Salah could become the next big star alongside Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, or Rodrigo de Paul. However, according to reports from the US, Inter are mainly looking for replacements for Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, both Barcelona legends who retired after winning the MLS Cup.
No matter which American club the Egyptian international might join, interest in his arrival in MLS would be huge. League commissioner Don Garber has made no secret of his desire to bring Salah to the league, and his statements make it clear that he will do everything possible to make the transfer happen.
"We fully respect his current contract – that's the American business dynamic. He has a contract with Liverpool, with people we know. Of course, if he ever decides to move to MLS, we'll welcome him with open arms," he said.
"I think he should talk to Leo (Messi) and Thomas Müller and ask them how happy and successful they are, and how much they've come to love Major League Soccer," added the 68-year-old American.