Mohamed Salah (foto: Getty Images)
Al-Hilal remains active in the transfer market, but their focus may be shifting away from Mohamed Salah as they pursue a blockbuster move for Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.
The Saudi Pro League giants have reportedly tabled a massive nine-figure bid for the Brazilian winger, signaling a potential change in strategy ahead of the transfer window closing on Friday night.
While Salah has long been a top target for Saudi clubs, he has yet to agree on a contract extension with Liverpool. Speculation suggested that Neymar’s exit from Al-Hilal would free up funds for the Egyptian’s transfer, but the club’s interest in Rodrygo raises questions about whether their focus has shifted.
(foto: Getty Images)
Reports from Spain suggest that Rodrygo is being lined up as a marquee signing ahead of Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup. However, the 23-year-old forward is believed to prefer staying at the Santiago Bernabéu, making the outcome of Al-Hilal’s approach uncertain.
Despite this, the Saudi Pro League remains keen on bringing Salah to the Middle East. The country’s Minister of Sport, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, recently spoke about the impact Salah could have on football in Saudi Arabia, comparing his potential arrival to that of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored, he stated: “He’s the most high-profile Muslim player in the world. He’s arguably one of the best two or three players in the world. He hasn’t signed a new contract yet. Is he the big prize? Well, definitely. We’d love to have him.”
With the transfer deadline looming, Al-Hilal’s pursuit of Rodrygo could influence their plans for Salah. If the Brazilian stays at Real Madrid, the Saudi club may renew their efforts to sign the Liverpool star, especially if no new contract agreement is reached at Anfield.