Richard Hughes remains “fully committed” to Liverpool this summer, but an “aggressive” approach from Al Hilal is expected after the transfer window concludes.
Liverpool’s sporting director has been consistently linked to a move to Saudi Arabia since March, with reports from the region readily claiming he has agreed to join Al Hilal.
Journalist Ben Jacobs, who has strong connections in Saudi, has told The Redmen TV that an “aggressive” approach is expected from September, with “advanced talks” having already taken place.
But he stressed that Hughes “is fully committed to Liverpool for this summer” as the rebuild continues with new signings and outgoings.
“My expectation is that it goes quiet over the summer, that he continues to lead Liverpool’s recruitment and get this two-summer plan done,” Jacobs explained.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Sunday, October 19, 2025: Former Liverpool player Ian Rush (L) with Liverpool's Sporting Directors Julian Ward (C) and Richard Hughes (R) before the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester United FC at Anfield. Man Utd won 2-1. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
“But then, after that, I think Al Hilal will be there. I think Al Hilal will be aggressive.”
Liverpool sources maintain that Hughes is committed to the club, “and that once the window shuts, he’ll have a big decision to make.”
Al Hilal, however, are planning for the 47-year-old to reunite with Simon Francis following on from their time at Bournemouth, with the duo touted to take up roles as technical and sporting directors.
Hughes is currently overseeing the transition from Arne Slot to Andoni Iraola, and the continued player recruitment that has seen forward Victor Munoz added to the squad.
He is responsible for the long-term future of the club alongside FSG CEO of Football Michael Edwards, but both are out of contract next summer alongside eight senior players.
It is an important juncture for Liverpool after the decision to change the head coach, with stability on and off the field needed, in addition to a clear and coherent direction.
It remains to be seen if Hughes will depart the Reds one year before his contract expires when the transfer window closes on September 1, but the club could already have his successor in assistant sporting director David Woodfine.