Saudi Arabian officials are “pessimistic” about their chances of signing Liverpool forward Mo Salah this summer, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
Writing in his column for GiveMeSport, Jacobs said that dealmakers have not been given any encouragement from the player or his agent, with Salah still said to be giving priority to the Reds.
As things stand, the winger will leave Anfield when his contract expires on June 30th, but there has always been a feeling that he would prefer to stay for longer if a new deal can be agreed.
Jacobs says Saudi Pro League sporting director Michael Emenalo has an “excellent relationship” with Salah but even he hasn’t been able to sway the Egyptian.
For their part, Liverpool remain confident that the 32-year-old will stay, although there isn’t any sign that an agreement is close between the two parties.
Another Liverpool player could move to the Middle East instead
While Salah doesn’t appear to be interested in following other stars to Saudi Arabia, the situation is a lot different with Darwin Nunez.
The Uruguayan international was reportedly close to joining Al-Nassr in January before the plug was pulled on the deal.
Jacobs believes Saudi officials will now focus on reviving their attempts to sign Nunez, whilst also attempting to complete deals for the likes of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr, Arsenal’s Gabriel and West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus.
Salah is keener to stay than Trent
From the looks of things, Liverpool’s No.11 is making every effort to remain at Anfield beyond the summer. The same cannot be said of Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The Reds’ vice-captain’s 20-year association with the Merseyside club seems to be coming to an end, with Real Madrid now set to secure his services on a free transfer.
It would be a big setback for head coach Arne Slot, but the blow could be softened somewhat if Salah and (potentially) Virgil van Dijk decide to remain at the club.
Read our exclusive interview with former Liverpool fullback Glen Johnson as he talks about whether the Reds should sign Kerkez.
