The end of an era is officially upon us, as Mohamed Salah prepares to bid farewell to Anfield, igniting a monumental transfer race in the Saudi Pro League. After years of speculation, the Egyptian King's departure from Liverpool has been confirmed, sending shockwaves through the football world and kicking off a high-stakes pursuit for his services.
Key Points on Salah's Exit & Saudi Interest:
- Mohamed Salah has confirmed his departure from Liverpool at the close of the current campaign.
- Al-Ittihad are currently the leading contenders in the Saudi Pro League for his signature.
- The Jeddah giants view Salah as the perfect replacement for their departing star, Karim Benzema.
- Only Al-Qadsiah is believed to possess the financial muscle to rival Al-Ittihad's formidable offer.
The King's Final Bow at Anfield
The news that Mohamed Salah will leave Liverpool marks a pivotal moment for both player and club. This wasn't a snap decision; reports suggest the Saudi giants have been tracking Salah for an extended period. Indeed, Liverpool famously rebuffed a staggering £150 million bid from Al-Ittihad in September 2023, showcasing their previous determination to retain their talisman.
However, the landscape has dramatically shifted since Salah's public declaration. With his contract winding down and the player keen on a new challenge, Liverpool are reportedly ready to grant him a free transfer, despite one year remaining on his deal. This move allows the club to respectfully acknowledge his immense contributions while avoiding a drawn-out transfer saga.
The Saudi Gold Rush for a Global Icon
Al-Ittihad have wasted no time in making their intentions clear, surging to the forefront of potential suitors. They see Salah not just as a player, but as a global brand, a successor to Karim Benzema who recently departed for Al-Hilal. His cultural significance as a leading Arab athlete further amplifies his appeal in the Middle East, making him the ideal figurehead for the league.
While Al-Ittihad leads, the competition isn't entirely clear-cut. Sources indicate that Al-Qadsiah is the only other regional club with the financial firepower to genuinely challenge their offer. Notably, traditional powerhouses like Al-Nassr, home to Cristiano Ronaldo, Al-Ahli, and Al-Hilal are not expected to enter the bidding war at this stage, focusing the battle between a select few.
A Legacy Forged in Red
Since arriving from Roma in 2017, Salah has been nothing short of phenomenal for Liverpool. He became the undisputed catalyst for a trophy-laden era, delivering 8 major titles, including the Premier League and Champions League. His impact transformed the club back into a European powerhouse.
His statistics speak volumes about his indelible mark on Anfield. With an astounding 255 goals in just 435 appearances, he sits third on Liverpool's all-time scoring list, trailing only club legends Ian Rush (346) and Roger Hunt (285). Furthermore, his 191 top-flight goals place him fourth in the club's illustrious history within the competition.
Turmoil Behind the Scenes
The decision to part ways, though mutual, follows a turbulent period for the Egyptian star. His typically consistent form dipped noticeably during the current season, culminating in him being benched for three consecutive matches in late 2025. This internal friction spilled over publicly when Salah gave a fiery interview, expressing his frustration and hinting at a breakdown in his relationship with the club amidst a difficult run of results.
The Future: A New Frontier Awaits
Despite the recent drama, Mohamed Salah's status as a Premier League icon is undeniably secure. His incredible talent, prolific scoring, and unwavering dedication have cemented his place in football history. A fresh start in the Middle East now appears to be the most probable next chapter for this global superstar, ready to redefine his legacy in a new league.
