Journalist: Saudi Pro League Still ‘Dreaming’ of Signing Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah | OneFootball

Mohamed Salah: A Saudi Dream Amid Contract Uncertainty

Liverpool fans have been jolted by the latest comments from Mohamed Salah, whose future at Anfield now appears uncertain. Speaking candidly this week, Salah revealed he was “more out than in” when asked about signing a new deal, fuelling speculation about his departure at the end of the season. With his contract expiring and the Saudi Pro League openly courting him, Liverpool face a defining moment in their post-Klopp era under Arne Slot.

Saudi Ambitions and Salah’s Pull

Reports by Sami Mokbel for The Daily Mail detail how Salah has become the Saudi Pro League’s ultimate transfer target. Their ambitions for the Egyptian forward go beyond football. Salah, already an icon in the Arab world, embodies a unique blend of sporting excellence and cultural significance. According to sources, the league views his potential arrival as a “dream signing,” capable of enhancing their global reach and elevating their reputation.

Photo: IMAGO

Saudi club Al-Ittihad previously tested Liverpool’s resolve with a £150 million bid in 2023. While Liverpool stood firm then, the dynamics have since shifted. Salah will be available on a free transfer next summer, making him a financially feasible acquisition for the Saudi Pro League, even though his wages would rival or exceed Cristiano Ronaldo’s staggering £177 million annual package at Al-Nassr. As Mokbel aptly notes, the marketing and financial clout Salah would bring to the league is almost immeasurable.

What Liverpool Stand to Lose

For Liverpool, Salah’s potential departure is a dilemma. At 32 years old, the Egyptian remains a vital figure for the Reds, both on and off the pitch. Salah has been instrumental in Liverpool’s resurgence in recent years, breaking goal-scoring records while serving as a global ambassador for the club. Losing him, especially to a growing rival like the Saudi Pro League, would mark the end of an era.

Yet, his exit could also symbolise a chance for Liverpool to refresh their squad under Arne Slot’s leadership. The club resisted the Saudi millions once but now face a decision rooted in pragmatism. Can Liverpool match the ambitions of a player whose iconic status makes him an asset far beyond his footballing skills?

Photo: IMAGO

Saudi Pro League’s Growing Influence

The Saudi Pro League’s aggressive pursuit of Salah reflects their broader strategy to transform their domestic competition into a global force. With high-profile signings such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and N’Golo Kanté already secured, the league is striving for credibility and marketability.

Salah represents a unique case. Unlike other stars nearing retirement, his commercial appeal in the Arab world is unmatched. His arrival would resonate with millions, potentially drawing new audiences and sponsors to the league. Mokbel’s report highlights this aspect, noting that Salah’s signing could “eclipse” previous deals in terms of financial outlay and impact.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, the prospect of losing Salah is bittersweet. On one hand, his contributions to the club have been immeasurable. Fans still recall his 2018/19 heroics, when his goals powered Liverpool to their first Champions League trophy under Klopp. Salah is not just a player; he’s a symbol of Liverpool’s modern renaissance.

But there’s also cautious optimism. Salah’s departure, while painful, could pave the way for a new chapter at Anfield. Under Arne Slot’s management, Liverpool have already begun transitioning into a younger, more dynamic side. Selling Salah—if done wisely—could fund strategic signings that bolster the squad for years to come.

Moreover, it’s hard to ignore the sheer scale of the offer Saudi Arabia might present. While Liverpool’s identity isn’t rooted in selling players for profit, the financial realities of modern football often dictate otherwise. If Salah chooses to leave, Liverpool fans can only hope the club maximises the benefits of his departure.

Ultimately, Salah’s next step will depend on his ambitions. Does he seek one last major challenge in Europe, or does he embrace the opportunity to become the face of Middle Eastern football? Either way, Salah’s legacy at Liverpool is secure. For now, all eyes remain on his decision—and on Liverpool’s response.