Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal are reportedly preparing a formal offer for Mohamed Salah ahead of the January 2026 transfer window. The move comes just days after the Egyptian superstar made explosive comments suggesting Liverpool “want him out” of Anfield—a statement that has ignited fresh uncertainty around his future.
The tension has escalated rapidly, especially after Salah was benched for three consecutive Premier League matches. For a player who has been Liverpool’s most reliable attacking force for nearly a decade, the sudden removal from the starting XI has shocked supporters and observers alike.
The situation reached boiling point after Liverpool’s dramatic 3–3 draw against Leeds United, a match defined by late chaos and Salah’s frustration spilling into public view. Speaking after the game, the 33-year-old openly criticized manager Arne Slot and the club’s hierarchy, claiming he had been “sacrificed” and hinting that this weekend’s fixture against Brighton may be his final appearance in red.
Saudi Clubs Scent Opportunity as Transfer Value Drops
Salah’s name has long been linked to Saudi Pro League clubs, who view him as the natural successor to Cristiano Ronaldo as the league’s global icon. Al-Hilal, one of the most dominant teams in the region, have consistently been at the forefront of the pursuit.
Their interest intensified after the club successfully lured Darwin Núñez away from Liverpool last summer. Having landed one Anfield star, Al-Hilal believe Salah could be next—especially given the fractured relationship between the winger and his current employers.
The timing, too, seems ideal from their perspective. While Liverpool rejected an offer close to £150 million two years ago, Salah’s transfer value is expected to be significantly lower this time. His age, expiring contract timeline, and public dispute with Liverpool have all contributed to the belief that a deal can be struck at a more modest fee.
Sources in Saudi Arabia claim clubs see Liverpool’s internal rift as a “window of opportunity” to secure Salah at a price far below previous valuations.
Contract Drama and Broken Promises Fuel Uncertainty
Reports indicate Salah feels the club failed to honor assurances made when he signed a two-year extension in April. That sense of betrayal has widened the gap between the star and Liverpool’s leadership, amplifying speculation that his departure is now only a matter of timing.
Salah has always maintained high professional standards and rarely expresses frustration publicly. The fact that he has now openly challenged the club reflects how severe the internal situation has become.
Saudi League Ready to Create Special Pathway for Salah
Despite the Saudi Pro League calming its spending spree in recent transfer windows, Salah remains an exception. He is considered part of an “elite category” of players for whom the league is willing to stretch its budget and regulatory framework.
The recruitment process would be overseen by the Player Acquisition Center of Excellence (PACE), an initiative led by former Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo. Salah reportedly holds a strong relationship with Emenalo, strengthening Al-Hilal’s confidence in landing their top target.
While Salah refused to address the Saudi rumors directly, he did little to deny the possibility.
“I don’t want to answer this question now because the club will spin it in another direction,”
— Mohamed Salah
His response has only fueled speculation that a separation from Liverpool is imminent.
Egypt Duty Creates Ideal Transfer Window
Salah is set to join the Egyptian national team for the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations following Liverpool’s match against Brighton. He is expected to be away until mid-January, creating an ideal transfer window for negotiations to intensify away from Premier League scrutiny.
During that period, Liverpool will operate without him, while Al-Hilal can work quietly behind the scenes to finalize their proposal.
However, the Saudi club must first address a logistical hurdle: the league’s foreign-player quota. The Saudi Pro League only allows eight non-EU foreign players, meaning Al-Hilal must offload one international slot before registering Salah.
Nevertheless, insiders insist the club is ready to make whatever adjustments necessary to secure the Egyptian star.
The Beginning of the End at Anfield?
With Salah’s relationship with Arne Slot deteriorating, his contract entering its final stretch, and Saudi interest growing stronger by the day, the signs increasingly point toward an Anfield exit.
Whether the Brighton match truly becomes his Liverpool farewell remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: for the first time since joining in 2017, Mohamed Salah’s departure feels not only possible, but likely.
And Al-Hilal are poised to strike the moment the window opens.
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