Mohamed Salah’s Departure from Liverpool: Future Prospects

It marks a significant moment for football as Mohamed Salah bids farewell to Liverpool at the conclusion of this season, after nine remarkable years filled with records and trophies.

His influence on Liverpool’s journey has been monumental. Joining in 2016, Salah witnessed the team’s long-awaited climb back to glory, including victories in the Premier League during the 2019-20 and 2024-25 seasons and the Champions League in 2018-19. His legacy will be remembered by fans for generations.

With this chapter coming to a close, speculation about Salah’s next destination is heating up. ESPN’s global correspondents have explored the possibilities.

Could the Saudi Pro League Be a Destination?

The Saudi Pro League has gained attention for attracting stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, making it a plausible option for Salah.

As one of the Premier League’s highest earners, convincing him to move would require a substantial financial offer. The Saudi league, with its deep pockets, stands out as a viable candidate to offset Salah’s potential earnings loss from not completing his contract at Liverpool.

Sources in Saudi Arabia indicate that Al Ittihad is the leading contender to secure Salah’s services. They previously attempted to sign him with a $200 million bid in September 2023 and are reportedly back in the chase after losing Benzema to Al Hilal during the last transfer window.

Additionally, Al Qadsiah, directed by Brendan Rodgers—who oversaw Salah’s early career at Liverpool—could be another option. The club is eager to add a high-profile player ahead of the opening of their new stadium later this year, which will host games for the 2034 World Cup.

Moreover, if Al Diriyah or Al Ula achieve promotion to the SPL, they might also express interest in Salah’s talents. However, the likelihood of Al Hilal pursuing the Egyptian star seems low after their deal for Benzema.

Other Potential Clubs

Barcelona

Not long ago, a free transfer for Salah would have seemed too enticing for a rebuilding Barcelona to pass up. The club has recently focused on younger talent, with players like Lamine Yamal already occupying Salah’s preferred right-wing position, alongside Raphinha on the left. While they seek reinforcement on the wings and a new striker, Salah’s salary demands make him an unlikely addition at this time.

Real Madrid

Real Madrid has often been linked to Salah as a potential next step if he left Anfield. Yet recent indications suggest they have no plans to pursue him this summer. While the club has a history of acquiring elite players on free transfers, they typically avoid multi-year contracts for those over 30, especially with significant wage expectations. A move for Salah would therefore represent a significant shift in protocol.

Paris Saint-Germain

PSG has long shown interest in Salah, with previous attempts to sign him orchestrated by the club’s president. However, the club’s strategy has shifted away from older, high-salary stars towards a focus on youth, making the fit no longer suitable for Salah within their current framework.

Galatasaray

Galatasaray has emerged as a rumored landing spot since Salah’s announcement. Yet, sources suggest that discussions about signing him have not commenced, especially after their significant investment to acquire Leroy Sané from Bayern Munich last summer.

Is Major League Soccer a Possibility?

Inter Miami

At present, Inter Miami lacks the roster space to accommodate Salah, with Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and Germán Berterame filling their three Designated Player slots. The current situation complicates any potential move for Salah, especially since Messi has recently extended his deal through 2028.

Broader MLS Interest

MLS Commissioner Don Garber has publicly expressed enthusiasm for a potential Salah signing, emphasizing the player’s significance to the league. However, no teams have confirmed ongoing talks regarding Salah’s acquisition. San Diego FC’s ownership has shown no active interest currently, nor has there been any substantial dialogue from the Chicago Fire regarding him.

LAFC, while also refraining from commenting, appears unable to pursue Salah due to their current roster strategy, though changes may arise if he becomes available later this summer.