Why Mohamed Salah May Choose Fenerbahçe Over Saudi Arabia's Mega-Money Offer

Mohamed Salah's future appears set to remain in Europe, a revelation that completely reshapes what many assumed would be a straightforward transfer to Saudi Arabia following his Liverpool departure this summer.

Turkish media outlet A Spor reports that Fenerbahçe have already conducted two meetings with Salah's representatives, with club official Ertan Torunoğulları playing a key role in negotiations. The Egyptian forward has reportedly outlined wage demands of approximately £333,000 weekly — equivalent to about €20 million annually — mirroring his current compensation at Anfield. A third negotiation session was planned following Fenerbahçe's latest derby clash with Galatasaray but was temporarily postponed due to internal club elections. The keyword here is temporarily, not cancelled.

This development carries significant weight because the prevailing narrative for months pointed toward Saudi Arabia. Al-Nassr, substantial financial backing, the Cristiano Ronaldo connection — it seemed like a done deal. Betting markets still list the Saudi Pro League as the 8/11 favourite for his services. However, Salah's reported desire to continue competing in Europe fundamentally alters the landscape of those odds.

What the Istanbul club brings to the table

Istanbul isn't a place footballers go to wind down their careers. Fenerbahçe consistently participate in UEFA competitions, recently signed top-tier talent including Ederson, Leroy Sané and N'Golo Kanté, and play before one of the most passionate supporter bases in European football. If Salah genuinely prioritizes competitive football over maximum earnings in Riyadh, the Turkish option makes complete sense.

The club currently trails Galatasaray by seven points with just three weeks remaining in the Süper Lig campaign — making a title win unlikely — which means Fenerbahçe desperately need a marquee acquisition. Salah, aged 33 and available on a free transfer, perfectly matches that description. Zero transfer fee, immediate contribution, worldwide recognition.

José Mourinho's departure in August 2025 following a Champions League qualifying setback adds a layer of complexity. The incoming manager will need to approve a £333,000-per-week salary commitment — a substantial decision during coaching changes.

Liverpool's farewell story isn't finished yet

Salah exited the 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace on April 25 with a muscular problem, a visibly emotional moment that felt like a premature farewell. Liverpool have confirmed the forward should return before season's end, with matches against Manchester United, Chelsea, Aston Villa and Brentford still on the schedule. The final Anfield fixture against Brentford on May 24 could serve as his proper home send-off.

His 2024-25 statistics: 12 goals and nine assists across 39 appearances. These aren't the numbers of a declining player. They belong to someone who still has ambitions to fulfil, which may explain why Istanbul appeals more than Jeddah.

Current betting odds for Salah's next destination:

  • Saudi Pro League (Al-Nassr): 8/11 favourite
  • MLS: 15/8
  • AS Roma: 10/1
  • Barcelona, PSG, Newcastle: 11/1
  • AC Milan, Real Madrid: 12/1
  • Juventus: 14/1
  • Bayern Munich: 22/1
  • Tottenham: 25/1

Notably, Fenerbahçe doesn't even appear in current betting markets. Should negotiations advance, expect those odds to change dramatically.

The Saudi financial offers remain legitimate and won't disappear. But according to reports, Salah wants to continue in Europe — and Fenerbahçe are the club actively pursuing him at the negotiating table.