By SABC Sport
18th January 2025
The Egyptian star, in one of his best seasons at Liverpool, has been the subject of contract talks, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.
Liverpool have made an offer for Salah to extend his contract, but the player has indicated in multiple interviews that an agreement is not close. The allure of the Saudi Pro League, where clubs are willing to offer astronomical salaries, has caught the attention of Salah.
Reports from Saudi Arabia reveal that Al Hilal's president Fahad bin Nafel and Saudi Pro League vice chairman Saad Al Lazeez are in London to finalize Salah's transfer, alongside a young prospect born in 2003.
Khaled Al-Shenaif, a reporter for KSA Sports, stated, "Salah is 99 per cent an Al Hilal player, while Virgil van Dijk is very close. Everything has been agreed upon; the only thing left is for both players to sign."
This move would see Salah replace Neymar at Al Hilal, whose career there has been marred by injuries.
The potential transfer would mean Liverpool receive no transfer fee since Salah's contract would have run its course. However, he would see out the current season at Anfield. Despite these developments, there are claims that Salah prefers to remain at Liverpool, where a two-year deal is on the table, close to his expectations.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) also remain in the race, potentially offering Salah a three-year contract if Liverpool's negotiations falter. PSG's financial muscle could make them a strong contender for Salah's signature if he opts for a European stay.
Beyond Salah, Liverpool face other contract dilemmas. Luis Diaz, another forward for the Reds, is reportedly on Barcelona's radar should he not renew his contract, with whispers of a significant offer from the Spanish giants in the summer.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have their eyes on Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller as a potential new midfield signing, seen as a long-term solution and an alternative to Martin Zubimendi, who appears set for Arsenal.
Clubs linked with Salah include:
Al Hilal: Aiming to secure Salah for their 2025 Club World Cup campaign.Al-Ittihad: Previously close to signing Salah but less likely this time.Al-Nassr: Speculation around Cristiano Ronaldo's influence persists.Barcelona: A significant club but with internal debates on pursuing Salah.Galatasaray: Considered an unlikely destination but not out of the question.Inter Milan: Could offer Salah a return to Serie A, where he previously played.Juventus: Mentioned but not from reliable sources.PSG: Strong financial capability to lure Salah back to Europe.San Diego FC: An MLS option, driven by the club's Egyptian-born owner.
This evolving saga will keep fans on the edge of their seats as Salah's future hangs in the balance between loyalty to Liverpool and lucrative offers from abroad.