Salah leaves Liverpool and must choose between Europe and Saudi Arabia

Mohamed Salah is no longer a Liverpool player after agreeing to terminate his £400,000 per week contract one year early. The Egyptian forward, 34, had been expected to leave Anfield in 2025/26 but the decision was accelerated following a falling out with former head coach Arne Slot. Salah’s exit from Liverpool means he now enters the transfer market as a free agent with immediate effect. The two-time African Footballer of the Year has long been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, but his future is less certain than previously assumed. Al-Ittihad pursued him in 2023 with a £150 million offer and retained an interest, while Al-Ahli and Al-Hilal could also enter the frame. Interest from MLS clubs has also been reported, with Inter Miami previously mentioned as a potential destination. Salah has indicated a preference for staying in Europe, where Roma and Juventus from Serie A are among the clubs keen on his services. However, both would face challenges meeting his financial demands. Turkish rivals Galatasaray and Fenerbahce have also expressed interest, with Fenerbahce understood to be pushing hard for his signature. A new European suitor has now emerged in Atlético Madrid, who are targeting Salah to replace Antoine Griezmann.

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Griezmann’s departure for Orlando FC in MLS has created a gap in Diego Simeone’s squad and wage budget. Atlético view Salah as the ideal candidate to unlock deep defences and bolster their attack. “Mohamed Salah has become one of the most sought-after names in the transfer market for Atlético Madrid, who are looking for a new star after the departure of Antoine Griezmann,” the report states. “The Egyptian, a free agent after leaving Liverpool, represents a huge opportunity for a club aiming to compete for every title once again.” Atlético’s pursuit of Salah is framed around his ability to compete at the highest level in both LaLiga and the Champions League. The club’s push comes as Salah weighs options that include lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, where he could reportedly earn over £20 million per year. “For Atlético, that argument is key,” the report adds. “Saudi Arabia and other markets might offer more money, but LaLiga would provide him with competitiveness, European exposure, and the chance to continue fighting for major titles.” Salah’s decision will be influenced by his desire to remain at the elite level, with Atlético representing a top-tier opportunity. His contract at Liverpool had guaranteed him over £20 million annually, and he is now free to choose his next destination as the Pharaohs conclude their FIFA World Cup campaign in North America.