Salah, who is out of contract at Anfield at the end of the current season, has long been the top target of Al-Ittihad, who attempted to sign the Egyptian star in a record-breaking bid in 2023. Although Liverpool rejected that approach, Saudi football chiefs have now made clear that their interest has never cooled.

Speaking at a league strategy forum in Riyadh, a senior Pro League executive said the competition is “still aligned” on landing world-class names and confirmed that Salah “remains part of the long-term recruitment vision.” While he stopped short of naming a specific club, he emphasised that the league “will be prepared” when Salah becomes available.

Sources close to the Saudi setup insist that a free-transfer opportunity next summer would be viewed as a “priority moment,” with clubs ready to construct an offer that would make Salah one of the highest-paid players in world football.

Liverpool, meanwhile, continue to navigate a tense situation. Reports in England suggest some senior figures at Anfield have grown resigned to losing the 33-year-old, although Arne Slot remains keen to retain him for the remainder of the season as the team rebuilds under his leadership.

Salah has not publicly addressed his future, but the forward is aware of Saudi interest and is expected to consider all options once talks formally open in January. Liverpool sources maintain that no decision has been taken, and the club will attempt to present a counter-proposal if the player signals willingness to extend his stay.

For now, Saudi officials are staying patient but the message delivered in Riyadh leaves little ambiguity. Salah remains the face they want, and the door is wide open for one last marquee move.