‘If I Hadn’t Renewed at Liverpool, It Would Have Happened’

Mohamed Salah Reveals How Close He Came to Making Blockbuster Saudi Pro League Transfer

In a candid post-season interview, Mohamed Salah has opened up about just how close he came to joining the Saudi Pro League, revealing that the only thing standing between him and a move to the Middle East was his decision to renew with Liverpool.

The Egyptian star, who has become synonymous with the modern era of Liverpool’s success, spoke frankly about the tempting offer and admitted that the transfer was very much on the table before he committed to a new deal with the Reds. And while he’s staying put — for now — Salah’s comments leave the door wide open for a future move to the Gulf.

Saudi Move Was “Very Close” – Salah Lifts the Lid

Liverpool FC v Crystal Palace FC – Premier League

After Liverpool wrapped up their 2024-25 season with a win over Crystal Palace, Salah sat down with Egyptian TV channel On Sport to reflect on his year — and the headlines he nearly made off the pitch.

“It was a good opportunity for me,” Salah admitted. “If I hadn’t renewed with Liverpool, it would have happened.”

Those are not the kinds of words fans usually want to hear from their star player, but they speak to the level of transparency and maturity Salah now brings to the conversation. At 32, he’s no longer just a goal machine — he’s a seasoned professional thinking about legacy, lifestyle, and the next chapter.

Salah confirmed that talks with officials from the Saudi Pro League (SPL) were serious and advanced. He described the discussions as “long” and respectful, revealing he built “very good” relationships with the decision-makers behind the scenes.

“The negotiations were serious. We talked a lot,” he said. “I know the club’s policy in negotiations. We reached a middle ground that made us all happy.”

Fans Played Their Part in Keeping Salah at Anfield

Interestingly, Salah hinted that public pressure from Liverpool fans played a significant role in his decision to stay.

“Part of the pressure on the club came from the fans. I know from the start that they wanted me to continue, and they played their role in all of this.”

It’s a poignant statement, and one that underscores the strong bond between Salah and the Liverpool faithful. They’ve serenaded him from the terraces since 2017, and while player-club relationships can often feel transactional in today’s game, Salah’s comments suggest that — at least in his case — it’s more personal.

Golden Boot, Playmaker Award & FWA Player of the Year

Salah’s decision to stay at Anfield certainly didn’t go unrewarded — on the pitch or off it. The Egyptian wrapped up the 2024-25 Premier League season with a sensational double: the Golden Boot (29 goals) and the Playmaker Award (18 assists).

That’s not a typo. He led the league in both scoring and creating, an incredible feat for a player who, at 32, is supposedly “past his prime” by traditional football standards.

To top it off, Salah was also named FWA Men’s Player of the Year for the third time in his career — joining the likes of Thierry Henry and Cristiano Ronaldo in elite company.

His performances were a massive reason why Liverpool pushed deep into the title race and had another competitive European campaign. And yet, it’s fascinating to think how close we were to watching him swap Anfield for Al-Ittihad or Al-Hilal.

Why the Saudi Pro League Came Calling

The SPL’s interest in Salah was never a secret. The league has been on a mission to bring world-class talent to the Middle East, with major coups in recent seasons including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, Neymar, and N’Golo Kanté.

But Salah would have represented a different kind of statement signing — not just a global icon, but one who is Muslim, Arabic-speaking, and arguably at the height of his powers. His appeal in the region is massive, and SPL clubs knew that adding Salah to their roster would instantly boost the league’s credibility, marketability, and visibility across both Arab nations and the wider world.

In many ways, Salah is the dream player for the Saudi vision of football — someone who can lead on the pitch, connect with local fans, and help grow the game both regionally and globally.

What Kept Salah in Liverpool?

Mohamed Salah of Liverpool in action

So why didn’t it happen?

Beyond the new contract, it’s clear Salah still feels he has unfinished business at Liverpool. The club didn’t win the Premier League this season, and while they were competitive in Europe, they didn’t lift silverware. For a player of Salah’s ambition, ending his Liverpool career without another major trophy would be bittersweet.

There’s also the matter of Jurgen Klopp’s departure. With a new manager now steering the ship — potentially Ruben Amorim or another up-and-coming coach — Salah may want to see how the next chapter unfolds. There’s a natural curiosity and pride in helping Liverpool through a period of transition, especially as one of the dressing room’s senior figures.

What’s Next for Mohamed Salah?

Salah’s contract runs until 2027, which, on paper, keeps him at Anfield until he’s 35. But football contracts aren’t always set in stone, especially when big money and global projects are involved.

If the Saudi Pro League returns with another lucrative offer, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Salah accept — especially if Liverpool’s competitive edge begins to slip or if he feels he’s done all he can in English football.

He’s already a legend. He’s won the Champions League, Premier League, Club World Cup, and a host of individual awards. A move to Saudi Arabia wouldn’t be a step down — it would simply be a new chapter, one that could allow him to contribute to the growth of football in the Arab world and prepare for life after playing.

In his own words, the opportunity was real. It might be again.

Final Thoughts: Salah’s Legacy is Still in the Making

In many ways, Mohamed Salah’s interview was both a reflection and a teaser. It revealed how close he came to leaving but also reminded us of how much he still means to Liverpool and to football fans worldwide.

He didn’t make the move this time. But the fact that Salah didn’t shut the door on the Saudi Pro League tells us plenty.

He’s still focused, still delivering world-class numbers, but he’s also thinking long-term. And whatever happens next — whether it’s more glory at Anfield or a new adventure in the Middle East — Salah’s legacy is already secured. The next few years will just be about how far he can push it.