In a move that has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad have reportedly tabled a staggering offer for Liverpool FC's star striker, Mohamed Salah. The deal, reminiscent of David Beckham's iconic move to LA Galaxy in 2007, is designed to make Salah the poster boy of the Saudi Pro League for years to come.
The Saudi Pro League has been in the limelight since Cristiano Ronaldo's high-profile switch to Al-Nassr earlier this year. The league's aggressive recruitment drive this summer has seen several top-tier players, including Karim Benzema, Neymar Jr., N'Golo Kante, Sadio Mane, and Jordan Henderson, making the move.
Al-Ittihad's offer to Liverpool is believed to be in the ballpark of £150 million. However, despite the eye-watering sum, Liverpool remains reluctant to part ways with their prolific striker. The proposed contract for Salah spans five years and includes a basic salary nearing the £100 million mark. In addition to the hefty paycheck, the club is also offering Salah perks like a private jet or unlimited flights for him and his family, potentially shuttling between Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and England. Vacation packages are also on the table.
The deal also encompasses a role for Salah as a tourism and investment ambassador for Saudi Arabia, a position previously held by David Beckham and Lionel Messi. The latter's association with the role remains uncertain after his suspension by PSG last season for an unauthorized trip to Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, Salah's proposed contract hints at the possibility of owning shares in a football team in the future, echoing Beckham's MLS deal that eventually led to the establishment of Inter Miami.
With all the add-ons, Salah's annual earnings could potentially eclipse Cristiano Ronaldo's £173 million salary at Al-Nassr. The transfer saga is expected to continue until the end of the summer transfer window on September 20th in Saudi Arabia.
In a twist to the tale, Qatar-based broadcaster beIN Sports has reported that Salah has already agreed on personal terms with Al-Ittihad. However, Liverpool has yet to accept any offer. Given Salah's consistent performance as the club's top scorer for six consecutive seasons, Liverpool's hesitance is understandable.
The Saudi Pro League's aggressive recruitment is backed by the country's Public Investment Fund, stemming from the royal family. This financial muscle enables them to table offers that European clubs find hard to match. Despite the allure of the Saudi offer, Liverpool's stance remains clear: Salah is "not for sale", especially after he inked a three-year contract extension last summer.
The backdrop to Al-Ittihad's pursuit of Salah is Karim Benzema's alleged discord with manager Nuno Espirito Santo. Reports suggest that Benzema doesn't fit into Nuno's tactical vision, leading to tensions. However, recent developments saw Benzema donning the captain's armband and netting Al-Ittihad's opening goal in a 4-0 triumph over Al-Riyadh.
While Liverpool remains firm on retaining Salah, the player could potentially force a move. A recent incident where Salah was subbed out during a match against Chelsea and his visible frustration might be indicative of underlying tensions. Liverpool's manager, Jurgen Klopp, would be wary of retaining a disgruntled player, especially after the departures of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson to Saudi clubs this summer.
