Saudi Pro League director Michael Emenalo has shed light on the league’s pursuit of Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, explaining that despite the intense interest from Saudi clubs, the Egyptian forward was not yet ready for the move.
Saudi clubs, particularly Ittihad Jeddah, have been vying for Salah’s signature in recent months, with the 2023 summer transfer window seeing record-breaking offers on the table.
According to reports, The Tigers made bids exceeding $200 million for Salah, all of which were rejected by Liverpool.
The Merseyside club remained resolute, unwilling to part ways with their star player.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Emenalo addressed the potential of Salah leaving the Premier League for Saudi Arabia.
“I think it depends on Mo,” he said, acknowledging that while Saudi clubs were eager to bring Salah to the Pro League, the player’s own mindset and timing are crucial factors.
“There’s no doubt that the league would welcome a player of his caliber, but the decision ultimately rests with him,” Emenalo added.
Salah’s possible move to the Saudi Pro League has been a major talking point, particularly due to his immense popularity across the Arab world.
A transfer to Saudi Arabia would not only enhance the league’s growing profile but also mark a significant moment for football in the region.
Over the past year, the Saudi Pro League has already made headlines by signing high-profile players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar, further solidifying its presence on the global football stage.
While the summer transfer window ended without Salah making the switch, Saudi clubs remain keen on the Egyptian star. Salah’s current contract with Liverpool is set to expire at the end of this season, meaning that further negotiations could be on the horizon.
As Emenalo hinted, Saudi clubs are likely to renew their pursuit of Salah in future transfer windows, aiming to lure him to the Pro League.
The league’s strategy of targeting top-tier football talent has already paid off with several big-name acquisitions.
However, securing Salah would be seen as a crowning achievement, given his status as one of the best forwards in the world and his deep connection to Arab football fans.
Ittihad Jeddah’s willingness to table such astronomical bids underscores their ambition, and their determination to land Salah remains undiminished.
Emenalo, while speaking on the matter, also acknowledged the importance of timing.
“Players have their own journeys, and sometimes it’s about waiting for the right moment when they feel ready for such a transition,” he explained.
This sentiment suggests that while the door to Saudi Arabia remains open for Salah, the timing may not have been right during the recent transfer window.
For now, Salah continues to shine for Liverpool, helping the team in their ongoing campaign.
But with the Saudi Pro League’s ambitions showing no signs of slowing, it’s likely that they will come knocking again, leaving Salah and his future firmly in the spotlight.
