Mohamed Salah traveled to London to have a private discussion with former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson amidst uncertainty surrounding his future at Anfield. Salah was left out of Liverpool’s squad for their recent Champions League win against Inter Milan and sought advice from Henderson as rumors of a potential transfer in January circulate. The 33-year-old winger’s time at Liverpool is in question after he criticized Arne Slot in a recent interview.
Salah accused his manager of sidelining him, a move he felt was unfair. Despite this, Liverpool’s management has supported Slot’s decision to exclude Salah from the squad. Interest in Salah from clubs in the Saudi Pro League is increasing as the January transfer window approaches. A confrontation between Slot and Salah is anticipated before Salah departs to represent Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Saudi clubs such as Al-Hilal, Al-Qadisah, and Neom, along with American teams San Diego and Chicago Fire, are monitoring Salah’s situation closely. The Saudi clubs would have been intrigued by Salah meeting with Henderson in London, where they were seen having lunch together at Scalini in Chelsea. Both players tried to maintain a low profile by wearing face masks and hats during their meal.
Reports suggest that Salah was discussing Henderson’s time with Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia. Henderson left Liverpool in July 2023 and briefly played for Al-Ettifaq under Steven Gerrard’s management before returning to the Premier League via Brentford. Henderson and Salah, who were teammates at Liverpool for six years, have a strong friendship.
While the details of their conversation remain undisclosed, Salah’s meeting with Henderson is significant as he considers his options leading up to the January transfer window. Liverpool is said to be open to negotiations regarding Salah’s future, considering his substantial weekly wage and contract until June 2027.
Given the financial implications, a move to Saudi Arabia appears to be a likely scenario. Liverpool rejected a £150 million offer from Al-Ittihad in September 2023, but Salah has attracted ongoing interest from the Kingdom. The Pro League chief, Omar Mugharbel, expressed that “Salah is welcome” in Saudi Arabia. Liverpool has not confirmed if Salah will feature in their upcoming Premier League match against Brighton on Saturday.