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Liverpool fans could be forgiven for feeling a sense of déjà vu when it comes to Mohamed Salah and the Saudi Pro League. The Egyptian King’s name has been inextricably linked with the Middle Eastern league for the better part of three years now, with the saga becoming almost as predictable as his goal contributions on the pitch.
The history between Salah and Saudi Arabia’s ambitious project is well-documented and, frankly, exhausting for the Anfield faithful. Back in the summer of 2023, Al-Ittihad launched an audacious £150 million bid for the Liverpool talisman, testing the resolve of the club’s hierarchy as the Saudi transfer window ticked down.
Reports at the time suggested Salah had even agreed personal terms with the Jeddah-based outfit, though Liverpool firmly slammed the door shut on any potential departure.
Fast forward to 2025, and after months of uncertainty surrounding his contract situation, Salah eventually signed a two-year extension keeping him at Anfield until 2027. The deal ended speculation and seemingly closed the book on any immediate Saudi interest. Or so everyone thought.
But now, in February 2026, the Saudi Pro League’s pursuit of Mohamed Salah has been reignited with renewed intensity – and this time, there’s a very specific reason why the 33-year-old has become their absolute priority target.
Middle Eastern outlet WinWin has reported that Karim Benzema’s departure from Al-Ittihad as prompted Saudi Pro League chiefs to target Salah with intensity. The French striker, who joined the Saudi giants from Real Madrid in 2023 and led them to a historic domestic double last season, has now terminated his contract with the club after rejecting what he reportedly described as a “humiliating” extension offer.
Benzema has since joined league leaders Al-Hilal, leaving a hole in Al-Ittihad’s attacking power and their general brand.
It’s claimed that league officials have been monitoring Salah’s situation at Liverpool “closely” and are preparing to make contact in the coming weeks. With Moussa Diaby also reportedly keen on departing Al-Ittihad this summer, a clear pathway has opened for Salah to slot in as the club’s marquee signing and primary right-wing attacker for the 2026-27 campaign.
Saudi chiefs are reportedly also banking on the fact that the coming summer will be Liverpool’s last chance to net a transfer fee for Salah should he not extend his contract past 2027.
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