Klopp laughs off Salah speculation and claims interest in Liverpool star is a ‘media story’

Jurgen Klopp has doubled down on his stance regarding Mohamed Salah and has laughed off the speculation linking the winger to Saudi Arabia.

Liverpool had a busy summer with several high-profile ins and outs throughout the transfer window. While the market is now closed for English clubs, teams from Saudi Arabia can continue to sign players.

Salah has been a player of interest for Al-Ittihad of late and the Saudi club were knocked back in their initial attempt to sign him.

However, they aren’t prepared to give up anytime soon as a potential £200m bid is rumoured to be in the works.

Prior to Liverpool’s clash with Aston Villa, Klopp was asked about the speculation and if he had to think about selecting Salah because of the story.

“I didn’t have to,” Klopp told Sky Sports. “It’s a media story and it never came through. I have a big desk in my office, a lot of papers, laptop, iPad and none of them are busy with this kind of news.

“I have a lot of other things to do and we didn’t even think about it. Mo has had a completely normal, good training week. There was nothing from my point of view to think about.”

While Klopp seems to be cool on the situation, multiple sources are still claiming that a deal could be on the cards for Salah.

The 31-year-old would become one of the highest-paid footballers of all time if he made the move to Saudi Arabia and he is said to be tempted by the move.

Salah has been in fine form for Liverpool so far this season and to lose him at this stage would be a hammer blow.

Earlier this week Klopp was asked about the threat posed by Saudi Arabia’s interest and how it could impact the European game.

“I don’t know how long it will stay like this but I think the next 2 weeks will show how much of a challenge it is,” Klopp explained.

“Because no-one can react anymore [if they lose players]. We have to protect the game. I love all my players who went to Saudi.

“But the league is not that it distracts me from my watching habits. We need to ensure the European leagues stay as strong as they are.

“Maybe we can change some rules or laws slightly? We’re all surprised by the activity of Saudi Arabia. It feels more a threat than not.”

READ MORE: Saudi Arabia transfers: Liverpool and Everton both face anxious wait before deadline as Ramos agrees