Journalist: MLS Club Eyeing Shock ‘Ambitious’ Move to Sign Liverpool Star | OneFootball

Mo Salah and the MLS Dream: Could San Diego FC Land Liverpool’s Star Forward?

As Mo Salah’s Liverpool contract nears its end, an unexpected suitor has emerged from across the Atlantic. San Diego FC, a new Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise set to make its debut in 2025, are reportedly interested in acquiring both Salah and Manchester City’s Kevin de Bruyne. According to journalist Graeme Bailey, writing for TBR Football, the club’s ambitious owner, Sir Mohamed Mansour, is prepared to spend big to establish San Diego FC as a formidable force in American soccer.

San Diego FC’s Ambitious Vision

Mansour is a prominent figure with deep roots in football. He owns the Right To Dream academy in Ghana and Danish side FC Nordsjaelland, underscoring his commitment to nurturing talent and fostering success. His newest venture, San Diego FC, aims to disrupt the landscape of MLS by pursuing high-profile players like Salah and de Bruyne.

Photo: IMAGO

The club has already secured Mexican international Hirving Lozano, taking up one of their three designated player spots. Adding Salah and de Bruyne to this roster would not only elevate the club’s profile but also set a precedent in the MLS for recruiting European football stars at their peak. Mansour reportedly hopes his Egyptian heritage could act as an additional draw for Salah. Still, the competition for Salah’s signature is fierce, with clubs from the Saudi Pro League in a strong position, ready to offer the Liverpool forward a substantial salary package.

“Saudi sides would be willing to make the Egyptian international one of the world’s highest-paid players in order to seal a deal. Mansour knows he can’t compete with that but ‘hopes his Egyptian links can help,’” Bailey writes in TBR Football.

Why Salah and De Bruyne Might Consider MLS

While San Diego FC may not match the financial clout of Saudi clubs, there are compelling reasons why Salah and de Bruyne might consider the move to MLS. De Bruyne, in particular, has expressed an interest in experiencing life in the United States, and a stint in California could provide the lifestyle change he’s hinted at in past interviews.

For Salah, the decision may weigh heavily on both personal and professional factors. He would become the first Egyptian star to make such a move to MLS, potentially serving as a trailblazer for North African and Middle Eastern talent in the league. Additionally, playing in the MLS could allow him a more balanced lifestyle as he approaches the later stages of his career, away from the intense media scrutiny of European football.

Photo: IMAGO

Mansour’s willingness to invest in these marquee players also signals a shift in the MLS strategy, as clubs increasingly pursue European stars rather than relying solely on homegrown talent. However, it’s worth noting that a move to Saudi Arabia still remains the most financially viable option for Salah, should he choose to part ways with Liverpool. As Bailey states, “The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) are expected to present a formal contract offer to the Liverpool forward in the coming weeks.”

Liverpool’s Midfield Reinforcements: Arne Slot Eyes January Targets

Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has his sights set on bolstering the club’s midfield options. The Reds have been linked with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, whose summer move fell through despite Liverpool’s willingness to meet his €60m release clause. Atalanta’s Ederson is another potential target, adding further competition for a position that has seen recent arrivals, including Ryan Gravenberch.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot appears to remain unconvinced by Wataru Endo as a backup option, pushing Liverpool to explore alternatives in the January transfer window. With Arsenal and Manchester City reportedly interested in Ederson, Liverpool may face a bidding war to secure the Brazilian international.

The club’s efforts to strengthen their squad underscore a proactive approach to competing at the highest levels domestically and in Europe. Bringing in a player of Zubimendi or Ederson’s calibre would undoubtedly reinforce Liverpool’s midfield, providing more depth and tactical flexibility for Slot. As Bailey notes, “Liverpool remain interested in Zubimendi, but he isn’t the only midfielder on their shortlist.”

MLS Move Would Reshape Salah’s Legacy

A potential move to San Diego would mark a new chapter in Mo Salah’s storied career. Since joining Liverpool, Salah has been a dominant force, breaking records and becoming one of the most revered players in the Premier League. Moving to MLS, especially to a club as new as San Diego FC, would signal a shift from the relentless competition of Europe to a more developmental role, helping to grow the profile of the sport in the United States.

However, Liverpool fans might find it hard to picture their beloved forward swapping the historic Anfield for the sunny shores of San Diego. Salah’s contributions have been invaluable, and his departure would leave a significant void in Liverpool’s attacking line-up. While the allure of playing in the United States is undeniable, the move would undoubtedly have a lasting impact on his legacy at Liverpool.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, reports linking Mo Salah with a move to MLS feel speculative at best. San Diego FC may have the ambition, but competing financially with the Saudi Pro League seems a long shot. Many fans still hold out hope that Salah will extend his stay at Anfield, especially given his importance to the team’s recent successes.

For all the interest from Mansour, it’s worth remembering that Salah remains a beloved figure at Liverpool, a club with its own plans for future success. Supporters might argue that Salah, who has always maintained a high level of professionalism and commitment to Liverpool, would be more inclined to see out his career in Europe. In a fiercely competitive league like the Premier League, leaving for MLS may seem like a step down in terms of prestige and competitiveness.

With Arne Slot looking to strengthen the squad, Liverpool could be gearing up for another title push, which may further motivate Salah to stay and make one last push for glory with the Reds. The move to MLS might appeal down the line, but for now, many fans believe there’s unfinished business at Anfield.