The claim comes courtesy of a Saudi Arabian insider quoted in The i Paper (via widespread coverage including The Mirror and CaughtOffside on January 22-23, 2026), who expressed growing confidence that Salah will depart Liverpool in the summer transfer window. The source emphasized that powerful figures within the Saudi Pro League view a move for the Egyptian King as a realistic and near-certain outcome, labeling it “inevitable” despite recent signs of reconciliation between Salah and manager Arne Slot.
This renewed speculation arrives amid a turbulent period for the 33-year-old forward. Salah’s future has been a hot topic since late 2025, when a public fallout with Slot saw him benched repeatedly, drop out of the squad entirely for a Champions League clash against Inter Milan, and issue a scathing statement accusing the club of throwing him “under the bus.” He even hinted post-Brighton draw that the game might have been his last at Anfield before heading to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Egypt.
Salah returned from AFCON duty in strong form, starting and playing the full 90 minutes in Liverpool’s impressive 3-0 Champions League win over Marseille on January 21, 2026. Slot welcomed him back warmly, praising his professionalism and hinting at his inclusion, while the player contributed to the team’s pressing and link-up play—though he was denied a goal in one late chance. The boss described the relationship as patched up, with no lingering issues publicly acknowledged, and Liverpool have consistently stated their preference for Salah to see out his contract, which runs until summer 2027.
Yet Saudi Pro League clubs remain undeterred. Interest has simmered for years, with previous mega-bids (including a rejected £150m offer from Al-Ittihad in 2023) and public welcomes from league officials like Omar Mugharbel. Recent reports name Al-Hilal, Al-Qadsiah, and NEOM FC among suitors, with exploratory January inquiries receiving no encouragement from Liverpool—ruling out a mid-season exit. However, the Saudi source’s confidence stems from structural shifts: key departures in the Pro League could free up funds and slots, making a blockbuster summer pursuit more feasible.
The “inevitable” tag reflects a belief that this could be Salah’s final campaign at Anfield, even as he continues delivering on the pitch. His legacy as one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever players—hundreds of goals, multiple titles, and record-breaking consistency—remains secure, but at 33, a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia (potentially rivaling Cristiano Ronaldo’s earnings and lifestyle package) could appeal as a next chapter, especially with family considerations and post-career opportunities in mind.
Liverpool fans remain divided: some urge the club to cash in on a high-value asset before his form dips, while others hope for an extension or graceful send-off. Slot’s system has reintegrated Salah effectively, and the Reds’ strong Champions League position (top-eight contention) adds complexity—no one wants to disrupt momentum mid-season.
Pundits note the irony: Salah’s explosive AFCON performances (scoring in every game for Egypt) only heighten his market value, yet domestic tensions linger beneath the surface. If Saudi clubs table a world-record offer in the summer, the decision could force Liverpool’s hand, particularly with financial fair play considerations and squad refresh plans.
For now, Salah focuses on the present—helping Liverpool chase silverware in the Premier League, Champions League, and beyond. But this fresh hint, backed by an insider’s bold “inevitable” declaration, ensures the transfer saga will dominate headlines until a resolution emerges. Whether it’s a fairytale extension, a blockbuster exit, or something in between, Mohamed Salah’s next move promises to be one of the biggest stories of 2026. (Word count: 852)
