The summer of 2026 is shaping up to be far more than just another transfer window for Mohamed Salah.
For the Egyptian superstar, it may represent a defining crossroads, one that could signal the closing chapter of his elite European journey and propel his name to the centre of global football discussion.
After years of conquering stadiums across the continent, Salah appears increasingly likely to bring his remarkable spell with Liverpool to an end and embrace a new challenge beyond the borders of the “Old Continent”.
Recent media reports have pointed to strong interest from the Saudi Investment Fund, with growing speculation that the Egyptian icon could be the marquee signing of the upcoming summer, even though his exact destination remains unclear.
Much of the conversation has revolved around Al-Nasr, especially amid mounting talk that Cristiano Ronaldo could depart at the end of the season. That possibility has opened the door to a wider debate over who could inherit the throne at “Al-Aalami”, and Salah’s name has emerged as the most compelling answer.
His experience, leadership and global appeal make him an ideal figure to carry the project both on the pitch and commercially, particularly in an era that would demand a new symbol after Ronaldo.
Joining Al-Nasr would represent a unique chapter in Salah’s career. He would not simply be another star arrival, but the central face of a new phase, tasked with maintaining the club’s worldwide presence in the post-Ronaldo era.
The team’s attacking philosophy, built around wing play and rapid transitions, also appears tailor-made for his qualities, allowing him the freedom to exploit spaces and influence games with the efficiency that has defined his career.
Yet, the challenge would be immense. Stepping into a role previously occupied by Ronaldo guarantees constant comparison, from the very first match. Inheriting the crown would demand more than goals; it would require leadership under intense scrutiny and an ability to shape the identity of an entire team, both on and off the field.
Al-Nasr are not the only Saudi giants monitoring the situation. Al-Ittihad have also been linked with Salah, especially after Karim Benzema’s surprise decision to terminate his contract and move to Al-Hilal. That departure has left a significant void, one the club believes can only be filled by a global name capable of sustaining their attacking dominance.
Despite the arrival of Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri and the presence of high-profile talents such as Moussa Diaby and Houssem Aouar, “Al-Ameed” are still searching for an international star who can elevate the project to the next level.
Salah fits that profile perfectly, although expectations would be sky-high following the golden era led by Benzema, who guided Al-Ittihad to an unprecedented league and King’s Cup double in the professional era.
Salah’s name has frequently been associated with Saudi Arabia in the past, particularly with Al-Hilal. Last summer, speculation reached a point where many reliable sources suggested the Egyptian Pharaoh was on the verge of joining the Asian champions.
Instead, he opted to renew his contract with Liverpool, a decision that stunned observers after he had come so close to wearing the Al-Hilal shirt.
Now, with Al-Hilal firmly established as the most stable and dominant force in Saudi football, Salah faces a different kind of test. Whether he chooses Al-Nasr or Al-Ittihad, the challenge will be to compete with “Al-Za’eem”, either by leading a rival project capable of overthrowing their dominance or by risking a future of watching titles slip away elsewhere.
Signs increasingly suggest that Salah’s time at Liverpool is nearing its conclusion. A dip in form, a well-publicised dispute with Dutch coach Arne Slot and growing criticism from sections of the fanbase have all taken their toll.
These factors, combined with the club’s desire to rejuvenate the squad with younger talent, have created an atmosphere where separation feels inevitable.
For Salah himself, the prospect of a new challenge offers the promise of renewal. After years of historic achievements at Anfield, he appears ready for an experience that could reignite his motivation and place him at the heart of an ambitious new sporting vision.
Caught between Al-Ittihad and Al-Nasr, Mohamed Salah stands at one of the most delicate junctures of his career. Each option presents a distinct yet equally tempting pathway.
One offers the chance to succeed Ronaldo and become the defining face of a global project, while the other provides an opportunity to slot into a powerful attacking unit seeking a new leader after Benzema.
Whichever path he chooses, Salah’s pace, finishing and ability to penetrate defences ensure he remains a transformative figure. Ultimately, his decision will hinge on the strength of the projects laid before him, the ambitions of each club and the role he is promised. One thing, however, seems certain: when summer arrives, Mohamed Salah will be impossible to ignore.
