Liverpool star Mohamed Salah could save nearly £10 million in taxes by moving to Saudi Arabia, as talks of a January transfer heat up. This comes after his public fallout with manager Arne Slot, sparking questions about his future at Anfield.
The Explosive Fallout with Arne Slot
Salah’s relationship with Slot hit rock bottom after he was benched for three straight games. He called out the manager in a post-match interview following a draw against Leeds United, saying he felt thrown under the bus for the team’s struggles.
This tension boiled over when Salah was left out of the squad for a Champions League win over Inter Milan. Fans and experts wonder if this marks the end of his Liverpool era. Slot has stayed tight-lipped, focusing on team unity, but insiders say private talks have not fixed the divide.
Recent reports show Salah returned to the squad for the Brighton game after clear-the-air discussions. Yet, his comments have fueled transfer rumors, with many believing a fresh start might be best for all sides.
Saudi Clubs Circle for January Bid
Saudi Pro League teams are ready to pounce on Salah’s unrest. Clubs like Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad have shown strong interest, planning approaches once Liverpool signals openness.
Sources indicate Saudi officials see Salah as a marquee signing to boost the league’s profile. They aim to offer a deal that could include a loan or permanent switch, with massive wages on the table.
Past bids for Salah reached over £200 million, but Liverpool held firm. Now, with his contract winding down, a cut-price move seems possible. Three Saudi sides are reportedly keen, waiting to see if peace talks fail.
How Salah Could Save £10 Million in Taxes
A move to Saudi Arabia means no income tax, a big draw for high earners like Salah. In the UK, top players face up to 45 percent tax on earnings, plus national insurance.
If Salah earns around £400,000 weekly at Liverpool, his post-tax take-home is much lower. In Saudi, that full amount stays in his pocket, potentially saving him millions yearly.
Experts calculate that over a two-year deal, Salah could pocket an extra £10 million just from tax breaks. This does not include bonuses or endorsements, which often come tax-free there too.
Here is a quick comparison of tax impacts:
| Aspect | UK (Liverpool) | Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|---|
| Income Tax Rate | Up to 45% | 0% |
| Weekly Wage Example (£400k) | About £220k after tax | Full £400k |
| Annual Tax Savings | N/A | Over £9 million |
| Other Perks | Standard deductions | Tax-free bonuses |
This table shows why many stars eye Saudi moves for financial gains.
Liverpool’s Options if Salah Departs
Liverpool faces tough choices if Salah leaves. The club leads the Premier League, but losing their top scorer would hurt.
Replacements like Florian Wirtz or other young talents are on the radar. Selling Salah could free up £70 million to £100 million, plus his high wages, giving room for new signings.
Fans worry about squad depth, especially with injuries. Yet, some see this as a chance to refresh under Slot’s vision.
The board must weigh loyalty against business sense. Past legends like Steven Gerrard stayed, but modern football favors big-money exits.
Recent events, like Salah’s secret meeting with ex-teammate Jordan Henderson, now in Saudi, add to the speculation. Henderson’s move last year showed how such transfers can reshape careers.
What Fans and Experts Say
Public opinion is split. Some Liverpool supporters back Salah, blaming Slot for the mess. Others think it is time for change.
On social media, posts highlight Salah’s loyalty, noting he turned down huge Saudi offers before. One viral thread praised his choice to chase records over cash.
Experts predict a January exit if tensions persist. They point to similar cases, like Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi switch, which brought fame and fortune.
- Key fan concerns: Will Liverpool’s title push suffer without Salah?
- Expert views: A move could extend his career in a less intense league.
- Broader impact: Boosts Saudi football’s global appeal.
Looking Ahead: Salah’s Next Chapter
As Salah heads to the Africa Cup of Nations, his club future hangs in the balance. A strong tournament could raise his value or mend fences at Liverpool.
Whatever happens, this saga shows the pull of money and new challenges in football. Fans should watch for updates in the coming weeks.
Share your thoughts on Salah’s potential move in the comments below, and pass this article to fellow football fans for more discussion.
