Mohamed Salah ‘getting rest from Egypt’ as Liverpool star considers move to Saudi Arabia as Al-Ittihad ready to offer £200m
- Saudi Pro League team Al-Ittihad are considering a £200 million bid for Mo Salah
- Liverpool are determined to keep him before the Saudi transfer window closes
- Egypt has allowed him to stay in Britain for talks about his future
Mohamed Salah will reportedly be rested by Egypt as the Liverpool star considers a move to Al-Ittihad.
Liverpool have turned down a £150 million bid, but that hasn’t stopped the Saudi Pro League club from pushing for Salah until their window closes on September 7.
The European transfer window may be closed, but Liverpool have four days to fend off Sauri Arabi’s advance, with Al-Ittihad willing to spend up to £200m.
However, Salah has been called up to Egypt for their upcoming matches with Ethiopia and Tunisia the sun have reported that his national team has also decided to give him a rest during his transfer saga.
He was due to join his international team-mates on Monday following Liverpool’s clash with Aston Villa today, but the Egyptian Football Association is said to have given him permission to remain in Britain and be available for any talks over his future.
Mohamed Salah will reportedly be given a rest by Egypt as he considers a move to Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Al-Ittihad is ready to offer 200 million pounds for the Liverpool star
It means he would miss Friday’s African Cup of Nations qualifier against Ethiopia, but would travel to meet the squad for their friendly against Tunisia on September 12.
A statement from the Egyptian Football Association reportedly said: “The coach has decided not to rely on Salah in the game against Ethiopia, especially as the team has already secured qualification for the African Cup of Nations final. Salah will play the match against Tunisia normally.’
Talks have been going on for months but have intensified in recent days, with the Saudi pro League hierarchy settling down in Cannes in the south of France to hold negotiations.
Liverpool director Mike Gordon rejected proposals on Thursday evening and has since reiterated that the 31-year-old is not for sale and considers the matter closed.
Salah, who scored 30 goals in all competitions for Liverpool last season, is part of the club’s leading squad and signed a new three-year contract last summer, making him the highest-paid player in Liverpool’s history.
Klopp has admitted he is concerned about the wages being offered to players and that the Saudi window is left open longer so they can continue to distract players with what is on offer.
Liverpool are all too aware that there may come a time when the economy comes to dominate the direct sporting project for Salah.
Salah will reportedly play Egypt’s match with Ethiopia before returning for their friendly with Tunisia
Salah’s status as the greatest Arab athlete in the world fuels Saudi Arabia’s quest.
Liverpool have already seen a number of players leave for Saudi Arabia, with Jordan Henderson relinquishing the club captaincy to join Steven Gerrard at Al-Ettifaq, while Fabinho and Roberto Firmino also secured departures.
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson and central defender Ibrahima Konate were also the subject of interest, but were keen to continue with the Premier League giants.