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Plus, several Saudi Arabian clubs are eyeing off some key players from Brentford and Newcastle.
Salah Sparks Transfer Storm: Anfield Exit Looms as Saudi Interest Grows
The future of Mohamed Salah, one of Liverpool’s brightest stars, has taken an unexpected turn as the Egyptian forward hinted at the possibility of his final season with the Reds. In a candid interview with Sky Sports, Salah admitted that Liverpool has yet to approach him with a new contract offer, leaving the door wide open for speculation about his future. This revelation has reignited rumors about a potential move to Saudi Arabia, where Salah’s talents could earn him a blockbuster payday.
Salah’s current contract with Liverpool is set to expire in June 2025, but with no extension talks on the horizon, fans are left wondering if they’re witnessing the twilight of his time at Anfield. The 31-year-old forward has been instrumental in Liverpool’s successes, from the Champions League triumph in 2019 to the Premier League title in 2020, and his departure would undoubtedly send shockwaves through the football world.
The growing financial muscle of Saudi Arabian clubs, including Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr, has long been linked to a potential move for Salah. With the Saudi Pro League continuing its aggressive pursuit of top-tier talent, Salah could join the growing list of stars swapping European football for the Middle East. The lure of astronomical wages and the opportunity to be the face of football in a rapidly growing league could be hard to resist for the Egyptian talisman.
In his interview, Salah remained composed, but his words hinted at uncertainty about his future. “I’m focused on helping Liverpool this season, but beyond that, who knows what the future holds?” he said. It’s clear that Salah’s priority is still delivering for Liverpool, but the lack of contract talks raises questions about the club’s intentions.
The prospect of losing Salah is a daunting one for Liverpool. Manager Jürgen Klopp has often lauded the forward’s dedication and influence on the team, but with time ticking on his contract, the Reds could face a difficult decision: cash in on Salah before his deal expires or risk losing him for free. While Liverpool has always been pragmatic in the transfer market, letting a player of Salah’s caliber leave without compensation would be a tough pill to swallow.
Salah’s potential departure comes at a time when Saudi Arabia’s football ambitions are in full swing. With clubs like Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr signing marquee players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, the Saudi Pro League is aiming to elevate its global stature. The addition of a player like Salah, with his massive following in both Europe and the Middle East, would be a coup for the league and further solidify Saudi Arabia’s status as a football powerhouse.
Meanwhile, another Premier League star is already packing his bags for Saudi Arabia. Brentford forward Ivan Toney has reportedly sealed a lucrative deal with Al-Ahli, where he is set to earn a staggering £800,000 per week before tax. Toney, who has been one of the Premier League’s most consistent strikers, is poised to make the leap to the Saudi Pro League after months of speculation.
The move to Al-Ahli represents a life-changing financial opportunity for Toney, and it highlights the allure of Saudi clubs, which are not shy about splashing the cash to secure top talent. With Toney’s deal done, he joins a growing list of players who have made the lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia, chasing not only football glory but also financial security.
The Saudi transfer frenzy doesn’t stop there, though. The Sun has reported that several Saudi clubs have set their sights on Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier. The 33-year-old right-back, who played a pivotal role in Newcastle’s return to the Champions League, is said to be keen on a move away from the North East. Trippier has proven himself to be one of the best full-backs in the Premier League, and his experience and leadership qualities have made him an attractive target for clubs looking to strengthen their defenses.
Newcastle has yet to respond to the reports, but losing a player of Trippier’s stature could significantly impact their ambitions for the season. The Magpies are set to compete on multiple fronts, including the Champions League, and Trippier’s departure would create a void that could be difficult to fill. However, the lure of a lucrative Saudi contract could be too tempting for the veteran defender to pass up, especially as he enters the twilight years of his career.
Social media round-up
🔵🇸🇦 Marcos Leonardo, in Paris today for medical tests as new Al Hilal player!
Deal done for EURO 40m as exclusively revealed on Saturday. pic.twitter.com/1aHR3roCsh
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2024
🚨 Barcelona has offered Frenkie de Jong to several European clubs! 😳
The player has consistently refused to be sold.
(Source: @sport) pic.twitter.com/A95FPP4f6D
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) September 1, 2024
Players to watch
Jamal Lewis: The Newcastle defender is closing in on a move to Brazilian club Sao Paulo, Northern Ireland boss Michael O'Neill confirmed.
Memphis Depay: Sevilla seem to have been priced out of nabbing the 30-year-old forward, who is a free agent attracting interest across Europe after leaving Atletico Madrid, reports Marca.
Mario Hermoso: Roma are on the brink of a deal for the 29-year-old defender, who is now a free agent after leaving Atletico Madrid, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
