Saudi Pro League Confident of Signing Mohamed Salah by 2026

A senior Saudi Pro League official has declared absolute confidence in signing Liverpool star Mohamed Salah. The claim follows a tense public outburst from Salah about his role at Anfield. Two Saudi clubs, Al Hilal and Al Ittihad, are positioned as frontrunners for the blockbuster transfer.

The Egyptian forward’s future was thrown into doubt after a startling interview. Salah expressed deep frustration over being relegated to the bench recently. He hinted at an uncertain future ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Al Hilal and Al Ittihad Emerge as Leading Destinations

According to The Telegraph, a senior figure stated they are “absolutely convinced” Salah will come to Saudi Arabia. The timing remains unclear, potentially in January, next summer, or later. The official expressed no doubts about the eventual outcome of the pursuit.

Al Hilal and Al Ittihad are the clubs most likely to secure his signature. Both teams share the same majority owner, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. The league’s structure prevents internal bidding wars, streamlining any potential deal.

Salah’s Liverpool Links and Previous Saudi Bid

A move would reunite Salah with former teammates. At Al Hilal, he could link up with Darwin Núñez, his former Liverpool strike partner. At Al Ittihad, he would join ex-Red Fabinho in the squad.

Al Ittihad has pursued Salah before. The club saw a massive £150 million bid rejected by Liverpool in September 2023. Their fans have previously shown fervent support for the idea of his arrival.

The situation places immense pressure on Liverpool’s new managerial era. Mohamed Salah’s potential departure would mark a seismic shift for the club. His next move is now one of world football’s most watched stories.

Thought you’d like to know

Which Saudi clubs want to sign Mohamed Salah?

Al Hilal and Al Ittihad are the two clubs most strongly linked. A senior Pro League figure told The Telegraph these are the most likely destinations. Both are owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.

When could Mohamed Salah move to Saudi Arabia?

The move could happen as early as the January 2025 transfer window. The Saudi official said timing is uncertain, citing January, the next market, or next summer as possibilities. Salah’s contract at Liverpool runs until 2026.

Why is Salah unhappy at Liverpool?

He is unhappy with being named as a substitute for three straight games. In a recent interview, he said he does not “accept this situation.” He felt thrown under the bus by the club’s management.

Has a Saudi club bid for Salah before?

Yes. Al Ittihad had a £150 million offer rejected by Liverpool in September 2023. The bid demonstrated the kingdom’s serious long-term interest in the player. Their fans have openly campaigned for his signing.

Who would Salah play with in Saudi Arabia?

At Al Hilal, he could play with former teammate Darwin Núñez. At Al Ittihad, he would join ex-Liverpool midfielder Fabinho. He would not team up with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr.