Egyptian star Mohamed Salah could wave goodbye to Liverpool and to the Premier League this summer. This surprising claim comes from well-known British broadcaster Richard Keys. Although a lucrative move to the Middle East has long been discussed, the 33-year-old striker's future could take an entirely unexpected direction – a return to the Italian peninsula.
Mohamed Salah has indelibly written himself into football history as one of the best players in Premier League history. Since his arrival from AS Roma in 2017 for £43m, he has scored an impressive 252 goals in 429 appearances for the Reds. He has celebrated two league titles and a Champions League triumph.
However, the 2025-26 season has been stuttering and the atmosphere is growing tense. Salah's future came under particular scrutiny after his public outburst of frustration following the 3-3 draw with Leeds United in December. He added fuel to the fire last Sunday when he faced sharp criticism for his irritated reaction after being substituted during the narrow 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest.
New contract just a safeguard for a sale?
At the end of the 2024-25 season, the Egyptian winger signed a new two-year contract with Liverpool, but according to former Sky Sports presenter Richard Keys, this has no bearing on his long-term stay at the club.
“I have said many times big-money moves are not an exact science and that people can change their minds about what they want – right up to the moment a deal is signed,” Keys wrote in his latest blog.
“It is not long since I said an agreement to take Mo Salah to Saudi was done – and it was when I made that statement, only for the player to have a change of heart.”
And why did Liverpool extend his contract? Keys is clear: the club also changed its mind about his departure and was happy to offer him a new deal, but for one reason only – to receive a fee for him in the summer rather than letting him leave for free.
The well-known pundit also believes Salah's next destination will be a surprise: “I think he will leave Liverpool at the end of this season, but I do not think he will go to Saudi. The smart money is on a move to Italy.”
Underwhelming season and Champions League battle
The speculation about a need for change is also fuelled by his current form. So far this season, Salah has contributed just 7 goals and 8 assists across all competitions – modest by his standards. Arne Slot's side are also struggling in the Premier League and currently sit in sixth place. The Reds will have a chance to improve the mood this Saturday afternoon when West Ham visit Anfield.
