Saudi Pro League outfit Al Ittihad has demonstrated unwavering determination to snatch Mohamed Salah away from Liverpool. The Middle Eastern giant’s persistent interest in Liverpool’s star has not diminished, despite his agent, Ramy Abbas Issa, asserting that the player wished to remained committed to his current team.
The forward has inked a new contract with Anfield last year, leaving him with two years left on his current deal. However, several reports have claimed that Salah is intrigued by the prospect of exploring potential offers.
Saudi Interest in Salah is Irritating Liverpool
Al Ittihad already boasts a formidable roster consisting of Karim Benzema, ex-Liverpool midfielder Fabinho, N’Golo Kante, and ex-Celtic winger Jota. However, speculation looms over Jota’s future with the club, merely weeks after his 25 million GBP acquisition, as Al Ittihad sets its sights on securing Salah’s services.
With the Saudi Pro League transfer window slated to close on 23 September, nearly 3 weeks following the Premier League’s cutoff date on 1 September, tensions remain palpable. While Liverpool remains steadfast in its stance that Salah is “not for sale,” the tenacious pursuit from the Saudi club has caused some tensions in the locker room.
Jurgen Klopp Explains Saudi Transfer Window Problem
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp expressed concerns over the disparate transfer windows. The gap could allow Saudi clubs to swoop in after the Premier League’s window has closed. This could possibly disrupt team dynamics, which is a huge blow for clubs competing for the title.
Even before reports linking Salah to a potential move to Saudi Arabia emerged, Klopp had already called on FIFA to investigate the disparity in Gulf state’s transfer window. As it closing nearly three weeks later than Europe, European leagues are prone to losing players without the ability to adequately replace them.
He went on to emphasize the need for UEFA or FIFA to devise solutions for this discrepancy, acknowledging that the prolonged impact on European clubs. Klopp also recognized the necessity to adapt to this changing landscape, saying, “We will have to learn to deal with it”.
Salah is Not for Sale
Some unofficial reports asserted that Al-Ittihad and Salah have reportedly struck a 3-year agreement amounting to approximately 189 million GBP. However, sports magazines have casted doubts about this transfer. They emphasize that Salah’s recent contract extension signifies his dedication to the club. Salah recently penned an extended 3-year contract last summer, significantly boosting his status as Liverpool’s top earner with a weekly wage of around 350,000 GBP.
While the financial clout of Saudi clubs is undeniable, Liverpool’s reluctance to part with its prized asset remains evident. Salah is an integral player to their plans, and the financial enticements might not sway their determination to retain him.
Liverpool has already sold 2 of their seasoned players to Saudi Arabia during this summer transfer window. The former captain, Jordan Henderson, moved to Al Ettifaq for a 12 million GBP fee. Prior to that, Fabinho completed the transfer for 40 million GBP to Al Ittihad.
