Just when it seemed inevitable that Mohamed Salah would be the next global superstar tempted by Saudi riches, the move has been thrown into serious doubt.
For months the rumour mill has been in overdrive, with eye watering figures swirling around the Saudi Pro League and its mission to lure the world’s biggest names. Salah, one of the most recognisable faces in world football and a modern legend at Liverpool FC, appeared the perfect poster boy.
But insiders now suggest the proposed switch is far from straightforward.
While the Saudis have shown they are more than happy to roll out the red carpet and the cheque book, there are growing whispers that Salah doesn’t quite fit the long term vision being crafted behind the scenes. The league’s recent recruitment drive has focused on players who can combine star power with years of service ahead of them, helping to build a competitive product rather than a short term spectacle.
That strategy was symbolised by the blockbuster arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo, whose move lit up the region but also raised questions about balance and sustainability.
Now it seems Saudi chiefs are wary of repeating what some see as a headline grabbing gamble rather than a carefully planned investment.
Salah, for all his brilliance, is approaching the latter stages of his peak years. While he remains devastating in front of goal and supremely fit, decision makers are reportedly split over whether pouring vast resources into another megastar is the smartest path forward.
From Salah’s perspective, the appeal is obvious. A fresh challenge, astronomical wages, and the chance to become the face of football in the Middle East would tempt even the most loyal servant.
Yet sources close to the situation hint that talks have cooled, with doubts creeping in on both sides.
Back at Anfield, Liverpool fans will be watching nervously. Losing Salah would rip the heart out of the team, but there’s also a sense that if a massive offer does land, the club may be forced into difficult conversations.
For now, what once looked like a done deal is anything but.
Salah’s Saudi adventure is wobbling, the big money move no longer guaranteed, and one of football’s most talked about transfers could yet fizzle out before it truly catches fire.
In the mad world of modern football, though, don’t be surprised if the story twists again tomorrow.