Liverpool Firmly Reject Offers for Star Player Mohamed Salah Amidst Al-Ittihad’s Pursuit
Liverpool, UK – Despite persistent efforts from Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad to acquire Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, Liverpool remains unwavering in its decision to retain the talented forward. The Saudi club’s strong interest in Salah has led to a series of audacious attempts, even though Liverpool is determined to keep their prized asset.
Jurgen Klopp’s team has already parted ways with Fabinho, who joined Al-Ittihad during this transfer window. However, the club’s interest in Salah has continued throughout the summer. Al-Ittihad views the 31-year-old as a potential centerpiece ahead of their participation in the upcoming Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia.
Despite Salah’s immense popularity as the most well-known Arab athlete globally, any potential move away from Anfield would require him to compromise his reputation. Liverpool has emphatically stated its resistance to entertain offers, regardless of their size.
The possibility of a transfer would only materialize if Salah, the club, and his agent Ramy Abbas all agree to the move, a scenario that has not yet transpired. Just a fortnight ago, Abbas affirmed Salah’s commitment to Liverpool and stated that he would not leave this year.
Earlier in the summer, Al-Ittihad was reportedly willing to offer Salah an annual salary of approximately £77 million to join their ranks. Managed by former Tottenham and Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo, the club has also secured signings such as N’Golo Kante, Karim Benzema, and Fabinho.
The Saudi Pro League champions’ pursuit of Mohamed Salah has intensified, particularly due to the impending Club World Cup. Although Salah has not definitively rejected Al-Ittihad’s advances, a potential move remains uncertain. Even if a transfer doesn’t materialize this summer, it’s a situation worth monitoring in the coming year.
Salah, who is Liverpool’s highest-paid player in history, signed a new contract last summer, guaranteeing him a weekly wage of approximately £350,000. With two years remaining on his current deal, Salah has also assumed a leadership role within the Reds’ squad, given Jordan Henderson’s departure. He remains a pivotal player under Klopp’s guidance.
Losing Salah just days before the transfer window closes would have significant consequences for Klopp and could potentially disrupt Liverpool’s season. Finding a suitable replacement in such a short timeframe would prove to be an arduous task.
Jurgen Klopp has openly criticized the fact that the Premier League transfer window closes ahead of Saudi Arabia’s window, making it challenging for English clubs to replace departing players towards the end of summer. ‘One of the worst things, if I’m not mistaken, is that the Saudi Arabian market lasts three more weeks. UEFA or FIFA have to remedy this,’ he remarked.
While former Liverpool teammate Dejan Lovren doubts the likelihood of a move, Al-Ittihad remains resolute in its pursuit of Salah. Recent instances of Gulf state clubs attracting top-tier players like Neymar have underscored their ambitions, leaving no player’s prospects off the table.
Liverpool is scheduled to face Newcastle, owned by Saudi Arabia, at St James’ Park this Sunday.
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