Saudi Arabia set to renew their pursuit of Mohamed Salah in the upcoming summer

19 January 2024 2690
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Mohamed Salah, the Liverpool forward, continues to be a primary target for the Saudi Pro League, with another opportunity to transfer to the Middle East expected this summer, according to 90min.

Last summer, Salah garnered serious interest from Saudi team Al Ittihad during the transfer window. However, Liverpool remained resolute and did not let go of their key player, who is under contract until 2025.

As Salah nears the end of his current contract with just a year remaining, it is anticipated that the Egypt international will be presented with a new offer from Saudi authorities this summer, assuming he doesn't sign a new agreement before the season concludes.

According to 90min sources, Salah is enjoying his time at Liverpool and there's a possibility the 31-year-old might agree to extend his time at Anfield. Nevertheless, a decision is not expected in the immediate future and will likely be made later in the year.

Unless a departure from Anfield is officially dismissed, Saudi officials will continue to hold out hope of persuading Salah to make the shift. Although Al Ittihad was granted permission by the Saudi Ministry of Sport to offer £150m for Salah last year, it is believed that Al Hilal will be leading the chase this summer.

Last year, Salah was among Al Hilal's potential recruits but was listed third behind Lionel Messi, who went to Inter Miami, and Neymar, secured for €90m before sustaining a serious knee injury only five matches into his career in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi decision-makers have identified Salah as a chief target for the league, alongside Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne. However, their pursuit requires Salah's willingness to migrate, as he enjoys a strong rapport with Saudi Pro League's director of football, Michael Emenalo.

Emenalo, who signed Salah during his time at Chelsea, recently revealed: 'We're always ready to consider players like Mo Salah, Messi, Benzema, Ronaldo and the likes of De Bruyne when they become available...'But we acknowledge that Mo is content where he is now, with the historic and renowned Liverpool club. We respect that immensely and we have no intention of pressuring him.'

Liverpool also shares a good relationship with Saudi's Public Investment Fund's dealmakers. Despite being initially disgruntled by the advances made for midfielders Jordan Henderson and Fabinho last summer, the Reds appreciated the direct contact and respect they received concerning Salah when they turned down an offer the previous summer. Mike Gordon clarified over the phone that Liverpool genuinely wanted to retain Salah, which was recognized by Al Ittihad and the other parties, who then chose to withdraw their offer to uphold the relationship.


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