Salah Could Reverse Exit Plans If Saudi Move Fails, While Liverpool Eye Ngumoha as Long-Term Successor

Mohamed Salah's exit from Liverpool may not be as inevitable as it appears, with reports suggesting the Egyptian could shelve his departure plans should a move to Saudi Arabia fail to materialise this summer.

The 32-year-old has been persistently linked with the Saudi Pro League throughout the past twelve months, though his dramatic dip in form this season has shifted the narrative surrounding his future at Anfield. Having been arguably the Premier League's standout performer last campaign as Liverpool claimed their 20th title, Salah's performances have deteriorated noticeably in 2025-26.

Financial realities may ultimately determine Salah's next move. Football finance specialist Stefan Borson reckons the Middle East represents the only realistic escape route, given the astronomical wages Liverpool would need to match elsewhere.

"I think the reality is only Saudi Arabia could even come close to competing," Borson explained. "If not, he'll see his contract out very happily on very big money. I just don't see any other real route out of Liverpool given his earnings."

The prospect of other clubs subsidising his departure appears equally remote. Borson suggested even a free transfer would likely prove unworkable for potential suitors, leaving Salah facing either a Saudi switch or remaining on his substantial Anfield deal until contract expiry.

"I just don't think that Liverpool would be prepared to say subsidise 50 per cent," he added. "I think the chances are it's Saudi Arabia, or he stays and finishes his contracts at Liverpool."

On the replacement front, Liverpool have reportedly settled on Rio Ngumoha as their long-term answer to the Salah conundrum. The young talent recently secured his contract position following Chelsea's unsuccessful pursuit, and former Premier League chief executive Keith Wyness believes the decision is crystal clear.

"I think it's very clear he's the ideal long-term replacement for Salah," Wyness told Football Insider. "The youth and energy he showed was certainly promising, and the fact they've settled his whole deal after the appeal from Chelsea suggests he's content. The fans can see the future here too."

Wyness acknowledged Liverpool's recent struggles on the pitch but backed Ngumoha as a genuine prospect for the future. "He's a young, exciting talent and certainly there are a lot of changes in the Liverpool squad this season, but he's one that does show promise," he concluded.