Reigning Saudi Pro League champions Al Hilal have reportedly identified Mohamed Salah as the ideal replacement for Neymar, who is expected to leave the club this summer. Neymar’s stint in Saudi Arabia has been marred by injuries, and the Brazilian star could be headed to Inter Miami, where he would reunite with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
Neymar’s Struggles at Al Hilal
Neymar joined Al Hilal in 2023 for a reported fee of €90m (£78m) after leaving Paris Saint-Germain. However, his time in Saudi Arabia has been far from successful:
- Appearances: Just seven competitive matches due to injuries.
- Contract Status: Neymar’s deal expires this summer, with an option for a one-year extension.
As Al Hilal plans for life without Neymar, they have turned their attention to Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, a player with immense global appeal and proven star power.
Salah’s Contract Situation
Salah’s current contract with Liverpool runs until 2025, but reports suggest the Egyptian forward could leave as a free agent next summer. Salah, now 32, has repeatedly hinted that this might be his final season at Anfield, especially with no progress in contract extension talks.
Despite this uncertainty, Salah is enjoying one of the best seasons of his Premier League career, leading to speculation about his next move.
Saudi Pro League’s Long-Standing Interest in Salah
The Saudi Pro League has long been keen on bringing Salah to the Middle East, viewing him as a marquee signing who can elevate the league’s global reputation.
- Hafez Al Medlej, a prominent figure in the Asian Football Confederation, previously emphasized Salah’s popularity in the Arab world and Europe, stating: “We must start working on the signing of Mohamed Salah because he is overwhelmingly popular.”
- Fan Enthusiasm: Even fans of Al Hilal’s rivals, Al Ittihad, have been seen wearing Salah masks during matches, underscoring his immense popularity in the region.
Potential European Competition for Salah
While Al Hilal remains a strong contender, Salah is also reportedly attracting interest from top European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona. Both clubs see Salah as a potential addition to bolster their attacking options.
Neymar’s Likely Move to Inter Miami
As Al Hilal eyes Salah, Neymar is heavily linked with a move to Inter Miami, where he could reunite with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. The trio, famously known as “MSN,” formed one of the most potent attacking forces in football history during their time at Barcelona.
From 2014 to 2017, Neymar, Messi, and Suarez combined to lead Barcelona to a historic treble, scoring 122 goals in the 2014/15 season alone. Neymar recently expressed his excitement about the possibility of reuniting with his former teammates:
“Playing again with Messi and Suarez would be incredible. They are my friends, we still speak to each other.”
What’s Next for Salah and Neymar?
While Neymar’s departure from Al Hilal seems increasingly likely, Salah’s future remains uncertain. Whether he stays at Liverpool, moves to Saudi Arabia, or opts for a European powerhouse, his decision will have significant implications for the footballing world.
For now, Al Hilal’s ambition to secure Salah as their marquee player highlights the Saudi Pro League’s growing influence and determination to attract global superstars.
FAQs
1. Why is Al Hilal targeting Mohamed Salah?
Salah’s global popularity and exceptional performances make him an ideal replacement for Neymar and a significant boost to the Saudi Pro League’s reputation.
2. What is Neymar’s current status at Al Hilal?
Neymar has struggled with injuries, making only seven appearances. His contract expires this summer, with an option for a one-year extension.
3. Where might Neymar go next?
Neymar is heavily linked with Inter Miami, where he could reunite with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
4. Is Salah likely to leave Liverpool?
Salah’s contract runs until 2025, but he could leave as a free agent next summer. He has hinted that this might be his final season at Liverpool.
5. Which other clubs are interested in Salah?
European giants like PSG and Barcelona are reportedly monitoring Salah’s situation.
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