Salah’s next move: Saudi riches, Serie A return or shock Premier League stay?

Mohamed Salah is officially a free agent after Liverpool confirmed the early termination of his contract, bringing to an end a remarkable nine-year spell at Anfield a year ahead of schedule. The Egyptian forward’s next destination remains unresolved, though he is understood to have no shortage of admirers as he prepares for life after Merseyside.

For now, Salah’s focus is fixed on international duty. The 34-year-old is leading Egypt into a round-of-32 World Cup tie against Australia on Friday night, and according to the Mirror, he has made clear he will not entertain any decisions on his club future until the Pharaohs’ tournament run is over.

Saudi riches remain the front-runner

A lucrative switch to the Saudi Pro League continues to be seen as the most likely and financially spectacular option for Salah, the Mirror reports. However, the sudden departure of league chief executive Michael Emenalo has added a fresh element of uncertainty to what had appeared to be a well-advanced pathway to the Middle East.

Italy is also being floated as a genuine alternative, with Serie A heavyweights Inter Milan and Juventus both credited with strong interest. A move to Italy would represent something of a homecoming for Salah, who enjoyed spells with Fiorentina and Roma before his move to England.

Turkish suitors and a Premier League twist

Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Galatasaray are reportedly monitoring the situation too, with the Super Lig keen to land a marquee summer signing, although the Mirror describes this as an outside possibility compared with rival offers.

More surprisingly, there is talk that a Premier League rival such as Chelsea could make an approach, with former Blues striker Didier Drogba said to be hoping for such a move. The Mirror stresses, though, that this scenario remains highly unlikely. Beyond Europe, ambitious Major League Soccer projects are also said to be preparing bids for the forward’s signature.

No romantic return to Anfield

Any hopes among Liverpool supporters of a dramatic reunion have been firmly ruled out. With Andoni Iraola now in charge on Merseyside and the club having removed Salah’s substantial wages from the books, that particular chapter is understood to be closed for good.

Whatever comes next, Salah leaves Liverpool as one of the finest players in the club’s history, having rewritten the record books during his time at Anfield. He departs with 257 goals in 441 appearances, having helped the Reds to two Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph.

Read more: Salah eyes Egypt scoring record as Socceroos face last-32 test in Texas