"It’s definitely about money" - Steve Nicol on Sadio Mane's future

Former Liverpool player Steve Nicol has given his verdict on why Sadio Mane reportedly wants to leave Anfield.

Bayern Munich are the favourites to sign the winger. Mane's contract expires in the summer of 2023, which means that the Reds have to sell him this summer if they want to receive a reasonable transfer fee.

Nicol is adamant that the Senegal international wants to leave Liverpool because of his financial situation.

“Oh, it’s money,” he told ESPN. “Absolutely it’s about money. From a professional point of view, why would you leave Liverpool?

“They are almost the best team in the land, so you aren’t moving for professional reasons. It’s definitely about money.

“If it is, then don’t give us some story about ‘looking for a new challenge’ nonsense.

“Just say, ‘I want a new contract and the one I want they aren’t going to give me it, which is fine. I have won everything I can and so I will move on’.”

Anfield Watch Verdict

We completely agree with Nicol's take on the situation surrounding Mane. Liverpool are one of the best teams in the world.

The Reds have won the Champions League, Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, Premier League title, League Cup and FA Cup since 2019.

So, if Mane does want to leave the club, it can't be because of trophies and success. However, if he doesn't want to hang around, then the club can't force him to.

Mane will be a loss if he does leave. The 30-year-old scored 16 goals and registered two assists in 34 Premier League appearances last season.

The aforementioned figures highlight that Mane is still more than capable of playing at the highest level even though he is at the backend of his career.

But, life goes on. Liverpool will survive with or without Mane.