Dealers in Saudi Arabia are feeling doubtful about securing Mohamed Salah’s signature this summer and have not made any formal offer to the Liverpool winger, according to GIVEMESPORT. The prevailing sentiment at Anfield is that the Egyptian forward is unlikely to make a move to the Middle East this summer, with growing optimism regarding an extension of his contract.
The 31-year-old Salah is in the final months of a contract that pays him up to £400,000 per week. He has been a target for Al-Hilal and other clubs in the Saudi Pro League. Senior officials in Saudi Arabia had identified him for the Club World Cup as a flagship player to align with new domestic and international television rights deals.
Interest in Salah revived when Turki Al-Sheikh shared a photoshopped image of him in an Al-Hilal jersey. Although Al-Sheikh is not actively negotiating, his influence as chair of the General Entertainment Authority and as owner of a Spanish club makes his involvement notable, leading some to believe there might be basis for a potential deal.
Salah Not Showing Interest in Saudi Proposal
Aware of Saudi Offer for Nearly Two Years
Salah has been aware of the financial package offered by Al-Ittihad since their bid in the summer of 2023, which Liverpool turned down for approximately £150 million. The proposed deal would have given Salah a three-year contract worth over £160 million per year, comparable to Cristiano Ronaldo’s earnings. Al-Ittihad respected Liverpool’s unwillingness to sell and did not make further offers. Now, Al-Hilal is taking the lead, partly due to their involvement in the upcoming Club World Cup where they will compete against Real Madrid.
While Salah has the freedom to negotiate with other clubs, progress has been stagnant from the Saudi side. Instead, he has focused on discussions with Liverpool, and despite previously indicating he might leave, there is now hope for an extension that keeps him with the club.
Liverpool Not Concerned About Saudi Interest
Al-Hilal Shifting Focus to Other Targets
Liverpool remains composed about Salah’s contract situation, relying heavily on data for decision-making. There are currently no fears within the club that Saudi Arabia will succeed in signing the player this summer, as officials from the Pro League and Al-Hilal are now considering alternative targets. Liverpool’s management believes that Salah will either agree to a new deal or remain in Europe while prioritizing negotiations with the club over any other prospects.
The club is also working to retain their captain, Virgil van Dijk, but anticipates Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure to Real Madrid. They have been informed of Alexander-Arnold’s decision, though no formal agreement is in place yet. Real Madrid intends to finalize terms well before the Club World Cup, which begins on June 14.
