Mohamed Salah Linked to Al-Ittihad After Benzema’s Exit

Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool is once again under the spotlight, as the Saudi Pro League—specifically Al-Ittihad—targets the Egyptian superstar as their prime candidate to replace Karim Benzema. With a turbulent season at Anfield and the recent seismic shift involving Benzema’s transfer to Al-Hilal, the stage is set for another major move in Middle Eastern football.

Mohamed Salah: Al-Ittihad’s Top Target Amid Benzema Switch

Mohamed Salah has become the primary focus for Al-Ittihad in their quest to rebuild after losing Karim Benzema. The Egyptian forward, now 33, has faced a challenging campaign, scoring just six goals and publicly criticizing Liverpool in December before leaving to represent Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. Despite signing a contract extension last April, Salah’s future remains uncertain.

The move comes on the heels of Benzema’s shock transfer from Al-Ittihad to Al-Hilal. Benzema, who joined Al-Ittihad from Real Madrid in 2023, was instrumental in their 2024-25 Saudi Pro League title run but has struggled this term, with the team languishing in sixth place. Al-Hilal, meanwhile, have surged to the top of the table, with Benzema joining a star-studded squad under head coach Simone Inzaghi.

Saudi Pro League’s Growing Ambitions and Star Power

The Saudi Pro League has made no secret of its ambition to attract world-class talent, boosting the league’s global profile ahead of the 2034 World Cup. Salah has been on Saudi clubs’ radar for years, and Al-Ittihad’s need for a new attacking leader is now more urgent with Benzema’s departure and reports that winger Moussa Diaby could leave in the summer.

While the current Saudi transfer window is closed, Al-Ittihad’s interest in Salah is intensifying ahead of a potential summer bid. The club previously saw a £150 million ($205 million) offer rejected by Liverpool in 2024, but Salah himself acknowledged the seriousness of their approach. His frustrations with Liverpool, where he claimed he was “thrown under the bus,” have only fueled speculation about a move to the Middle East.

Ronaldo’s Discontent Adds to Saudi Pro League Drama

The transfer drama isn’t limited to Salah and Benzema. Cristiano Ronaldo, arguably the league’s most high-profile acquisition, is reportedly unhappy at Al-Nassr. Reports suggest that the Portuguese star is frustrated with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), suspecting they orchestrated Benzema’s transfer to Al-Hilal to boost their title chances. Ronaldo, who has yet to win the Saudi league since arriving in 2023, feels let down by a perceived lack of support.

Challenges Mount for Al-Ittihad After Benzema’s Exit

Beyond Salah, Al-Ittihad faces further uncertainty. N’Golo Kante, another marquee signing, has attracted interest from Turkish giants Fenerbahce. Although a January move collapsed due to administrative issues, Kante is reportedly still pushing for an exit, even missing training this week. If Kante leaves while the Turkish window remains open, Al-Ittihad won’t be able to sign a replacement immediately, deepening their squad woes after a disappointing title defense.

What’s Next for Mohamed Salah and Al-Ittihad?

With Benzema gone and other stars potentially heading out, Al-Ittihad is desperate to refresh its roster and maintain its status as a Saudi Pro League powerhouse. The club’s pursuit of Mohamed Salah signals its intent to secure a new talisman capable of driving them back to the top. Whether Salah will accept the challenge and leave Liverpool for Saudi Arabia remains to be seen, but the coming months promise intense negotiations and headline-making decisions.

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Opinion: Is the Saudi Pro League the Right Move for Salah?

Salah remains one of world football’s most consistent performers, even in a challenging season. A transfer to Al-Ittihad would undoubtedly raise the Saudi Pro League’s profile and offer Salah a lucrative new chapter. However, the move could also signal the winding down of his career at the very top level of European competition. It’s a decision that will require careful consideration from both the player and Liverpool.