Former Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes close to Al Hilal move

Richard Hughes is close to becoming sporting director of Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal after leaving his position at Liverpool, according to Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat.

Liverpool previously announced Hughes’ departure, saying the former sporting director had decided to pursue a new challenge. Asharq Al-Awsat now reports that Al Hilal are nearing an agreement to appoint him to the same role.

Hughes began his work with Liverpool in 2024. During his time at the club, Liverpool won the 2024-25 Premier League title and qualified for the Champions League on two occasions.

In a statement published on Liverpool’s website, Hughes said: “First and foremost, I would like to reaffirm what I said upon my arrival: it was a great source of pride for me to have the opportunity to serve this wonderful and unique institution. This is something for which I will always remain grateful.”

He added: “My appreciation extends to the owners for their support and leadership, to the club’s staff at all levels who do so much to make Liverpool what it is, to the players who make a tremendous contribution, and to the supporters who back the team in huge numbers wherever and whenever matches are played.”

Hughes concluded: “I will always follow and support the club with great affection, and I wish everyone connected with the club every success and the very best for this season and beyond.”

According to the English newspaper Daily Mail, Hughes oversaw Liverpool transfers worth a combined £700m.

The signings of Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola are described as the most expensive deals of all time. Isak became the most expensive transfer in Premier League history when he joined Liverpool from Newcastle for £125m last summer.

Hughes’ departure comes after Liverpool recorded their first victory of the new season under new manager Andoni Iraola. That win came against Ipswich Town, following draws in the opening two rounds of the campaign.

His possible move to Al Hilal would represent a return to a senior sporting leadership role after his relatively brief spell with Liverpool. The Saudi club are now understood to be close to securing his appointment, although the report describes the move as nearing completion rather than confirmed.

Hughes’ period at Liverpool included a Premier League title triumph, two Champions League qualifications and a significant transfer programme. The club’s public announcement of his exit was framed around his wish to take on a fresh challenge, while his farewell message expressed gratitude to Liverpool’s owners, staff, players and supporters.

Al Hilal are therefore close to appointing a figure with recent experience of managing a substantial recruitment operation and working within a club that has competed for major domestic and European honours.