The Saudi Pro League (SPL) is preparing for one of its most ambitious transfer windows yet, identifying Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior as two of the prime targets for big-money moves in the summer of 2026.
Saudi Ambitions: What’s Driving the Interest?
After years of targeting global superstars—including Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema—Saudi Arabia’s top clubs, largely backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), are pushing to sustain their rapid rise in global football influence.
The SPL’s recruitment strategy now emphasizes bringing in marquee names who can boost both the league’s sporting quality and its commercial profile. This summer’s list reportedly stretches to around 50 “peak-age foreign players,” with Salah and Vinícius Jr headlining that shortlist.
Mohamed Salah: A Priority Target
Salah, 33, remains one of world football’s most recognizable forwards and a historic figure at Liverpool. Reports confirm the SPL has identified him as a top priority ahead of the summer transfer window.
Despite interest from Saudi clubs and contact reportedly made with Salah’s representatives, there has been no formal progress toward a January move—and Liverpool has not encouraged any mid-season departure.
His contract at Anfield runs into 2027, and although there have been recent differences with the Liverpool coaching setup, the relationship has stabilized, with Salah returning to the team after a brief absence from the squad.
As such, any Saudi move is likely to be a summer decision rather than an immediate transfer. His age and current form mean that while lucrative contracts can be offered, the decision for both player and club will hinge on sporting as much as financial considerations.
Vinícius Jr: A Younger Star in the Mix
Alongside Salah, Real Madrid’s Vinícius Jr.—still in his mid-20s—features prominently on the SPL’s radar. Clubs like Al-Ahli are reportedly preparing massive packages that could rival the biggest in football, potentially including extraordinary wages and long-term deals.
Vinícius’s situation has been complicated by form issues and contract negotiations at Real Madrid, making the summer window an intriguing crossroads in his career should Saudi rivals decide to push forward.
What This Means for the SPL and European Football
Saudi Arabia’s four biggest clubs—Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli—are now majority-owned or influenced by investment groups looking to reshape the league’s competitive landscape.
By pursuing top stars like Salah and Vinícius Jr., the league hopes to:
Enhance global visibility and commercial appeal.
Bridge the gap with elite European competitions on both sporting and business fronts.
Attract younger talent rather than solely older legends, signaling a longer-term strategic shift.
This approach comes as other high-profile players around the world also evaluate their futures following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With contracts for several current SPL stars expiring, clubs have fresh budget room to pursue new acquisitions.
Outlook: Will Salah Move?
For now, nothing is confirmed—but:
The SPL remains keen on Salah and has continued contact with his camp.
A summer 2026 move remains part of the discussion, especially given his contract situation.
Vinícius Jr could emerge as a parallel marquee candidate if Saudi clubs intensify their pursuit.
The coming months will be pivotal as Liverpool, Salah, and interested Saudi clubs evaluate the sporting and financial merits of one of football’s most talked-about transfer scenarios heading into the next season.
