When Can We Close the Book on Mohamed Salah’s Potential Move to Saudi Arabia?
Reports of interest in Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah from Saudi Arabia have been persistent in recent weeks, but when can we officially close the book on a potential move this summer?
Jurgen Klopp firmly dismissed the prospect of allowing Salah to leave Anfield last week, insisting that his forward is “100 per cent” committed to the club. But Jan Åge Fjørtoft is the latest to suggest that the 31-year-old could join the Saudi Pro League exodus, claiming that “unbelievable” sums of money are being offered to both “player and club.”
When Does the Saudi Transfer Window Close?
There have been some conflicting stories with regard to the transfer deadline in Saudi Arabia, with fans keen to know when the circus will conclude for the summer. It has been widely thought that September 20 is when the Saudi window closes, with FIFA listing that as the date. However, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) imply otherwise, with their website stating that Pro League players must be registered by September 7.
Earlier this month, Klopp himself asked for clarity on when moves must be completed, describing the extended deadline as “not helpful.” The point at which English clubs must complete their business is this Friday at 11pm (BST), which leaves some room for Saudi clubs to buy players from the Premier League while leaving those clubs without the facility to replace them.
What About Other Players?
Ibrahima Konate has also been the subject of rumoured Saudi interest, with the centre-back becoming the latest player claimed to have rejected an approach. The rapidly growing league has already lured Fabinho and Jordan Henderson, along with a host of other high-profile names, due to the vast sums of money on offer.
Friday’s deadline in England makes it extremely unlikely that there will be any more major outgoings, with Liverpool more likely to focus their efforts on further incomings.
Conclusion
With the Saudi transfer window closing on September 7, it looks increasingly unlikely that Mohamed Salah will be making a move away from Anfield this summer. Jurgen Klopp has been clear in his stance that Salah is 100% committed to Liverpool and with the English transfer window closing on Friday, there is no time for any potential move to be completed.
The same applies to Ibrahima Konate who has also been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. With Liverpool looking to make further incomings before Friday’s deadline, it looks like we can officially close the book on any potential moves away from Anfield.