Former Brazilian Roberto Firmino, who left Liverpool at the end of last season and became a free transfer, has sought a new home in the Saudi Professional League. In addition, Jordan Henderson and Fabinho decided to move to Saudi Arabia, a move that came with a transfer fee, leaving Liverpool struggling to find a successor.
Other standouts, including Karim Benzema, Neymar, and Sadio Mane, went to Saudi Arabia, while mid-20s Reuben Neves and Sergej Milinkovic Savic also made the big splash.
The biggest surprise transfer at the moment is 21-year-old Gabri Veiga, who was playing for Celta. The league is rapidly becoming a magnet for even players who are in a position to make a name for themselves in Europe.
Saudi Arabia’s financial power is again approaching that of Liverpool. Al-Ittihad, where Fabinho is also a member, is going all out to acquire Egyptian international Mohamed Salah, preparing a total of $165 million to sway the player’s mind, according to a report by CBS Sports.
In addition to the basic fee of $108 million, $54 million will be paid depending on the player’s performance. The Saudi Pro League’s highest transfer fee to date is the $97 million paid by Al Hilal for Brazilian FW Neymar.
If Liverpool decides to sell, it would be the most expensive transfer in Saudi Arabia’s history, but it is unlikely that a transfer will happen this summer.
Jurgen Klopp has consistently stated that the former Roma winger is not for sale, and at the press conference after the Newcastle game, he dismissed the rumors in the media. The club’s stance has not changed, and the fact that there is too little time to secure a replacement has not swayed his mind against a huge offer.
However, this is only in this summer’s transfer market. If a similar offer arrives next summer, there is a strong possibility that Liverpool will shake their heads. They will use the money gained from the Egyptian national striker to sign a winger who can both score and provide assists.