Saudi club Al-Ittihad is reportedly preparing a mammoth £215 million bid for Liverpool star Mohamed Salah. The offer would shatter the world transfer record and severely test Liverpool’s resolve to keep their Egyptian talisman.
The Saudi Pro League transfer window closes on Thursday, giving Al-Ittihad days to finalize the deal. Sources in the Middle East believe there is still time to pull off such a seismic move.
Liverpool has maintained Salah is not for sale at any price. They swiftly rejected a £150 million bid from an unnamed Saudi club last week.
However, according to reports, an improved £215 million offer may be too substantial for Liverpool to dismiss outright without consideration. With massive funds suddenly available, Liverpool could significantly reshape their squad.
A Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund delegation has been in London trying to broker deals before the Saudi transfer window shuts. They are expected to stay as Al-Ittihad prepares one last push for Salah.
Saudi sources insist Salah would be interested in hearing out this offer. As the most famous current Arab footballer, they believe Salah would relish the adulation of moving to the Saudi Pro League.
Salah’s Position
Salah’s camp has downplayed rumors he wants to leave Liverpool after only signing a new long-term contract last summer. But Al-Ittihad seemingly believes one more record-shattering bid could turn his head.
Manager Jurgen Klopp has staunchly stated Salah is not for sale. But it would be tough for Liverpool to reject a £215 million offer outright. Salah is 31, so recouping such a fee could allow Liverpool to restructure their attack.
Ultimately, only the owners of Fenway Sports Group can decide if £215 million is too much to turn down, regardless of Klopp’s wishes. Selling Salah would spark outrage among supporters, though.
This bid likely represents Al-Ittihad’s last realistic chance to sign Salah in his prime. If he remains at Liverpool this season, offers next summer would be smaller with Salah another year older.
