Mohamed Salah has re-emerged as a potential target for Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad, amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of French striker Karim Benzema and the possibility of his departure at the end of the current season.
According to Liverpool.com, a website specializing in news related to the English club, Al Ittihad remain among the Saudi teams most keen on signing the Egyptian star.
The club’s renewed interest is linked to expected changes within the squad, most notably the potential exit of Benzema, the Ballon d’Or winner and one of the most high-profile players to move from Europe to Saudi Arabia in recent years.
Benzema’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and reports suggest the 38-year-old is dissatisfied with the renewal offer presented by the Saudi Pro League, which oversees player contracts at clubs owned by the Public Investment Fund.
ESPN has reported that the former Real Madrid forward has withdrawn from full team training, opting instead for individual sessions, further fueling speculation about his future.
These developments come amid broader rumors of an exodus of high-profile players from Al Ittihad. F
French winger Moussa Diaby has been linked with a move away, while midfielder N’Golo Kanté is reportedly close to joining Turkish side Fenerbahçe.
Such departures could significantly ease the club’s wage bill and provide financial flexibility to pursue major European signings, with Salah topping the list.
Salah, Liverpool’s all-time Premier League top scorer and captain of the Egyptian national team, has long been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia as the league continues its push to attract global superstars.
Other names, including Vinícius Júnior and Ousmane Dembélé, have also been mentioned as potential future targets.
The report noted that Al-Ittihad attempted to sign Salah two years ago and have maintained a strong interest ever since.
However, financial constraints previously stood in the way of a deal, a situation that could change dramatically if Benzema and Kanté both leave the club.
Meanwhile, Saudi media have reported that Benzema has rejected Al-Ittihad’s contract renewal offer.
Al Jazirah newspaper stated that no final agreement has been reached between the two parties, strengthening expectations of the striker’s departure.
The paper also revealed that Benzema declined to take part in Al Ittihad’s 2-2 draw against Al Fateh last Thursday in the 19th round of the Roshn Saudi League, a move widely interpreted as a sign that he is preparing for a new chapter in his career.
Formerly of Real Madrid, Benzema is reportedly considering a fresh experience after his contract expires, with Portuguese club Benfica said to be monitoring his situation. Such a move could trigger significant changes at Al-Ittihad, and potentially place Mohamed Salah back at the center of the club’s ambitions.
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