Mohamed Salah has reportedly been offered to Real Madrid by his representatives, but the potential move has not progressed due to financial considerations. The Egyptian superstar, who remains a key figure at Liverpool with a contract until 2027, continues to attract interest from top European clubs amid a busy January transfer window.
Despite being an integral part of Liverpool’s squad, Salah has recently been at the center of speculation regarding his future. Internal tensions over his role in the team had previously surfaced, though the forward has since returned to regular first-team action. Nevertheless, rumors of a transfer continue to circulate, fueled by his high profile and consistent performances in the Premier League and European competitions.
Salah’s Loan Offer to Real Madrid
According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Mohamed Salah was actively presented to Real Madrid by his agent. The proposal immediately sparked discussions within the club’s management at Valdebebas. While Madrid acknowledges Salah’s world-class talent, the financial implications of the move ultimately posed a significant barrier.
The suggested arrangement involved a loan deal running from January to June, with costs estimated at approximately €12 million. Real Madrid viewed this figure as excessive for a short-term solution, particularly when considering their broader transfer strategy. The club’s hesitation highlights how even top players can face obstacles when financial prudence is prioritized over immediate reinforcement.
Liverpool Context: Uncertainty Around Salah
Mohamed Salah’s situation at Liverpool had become a topic of debate in recent weeks. Reports indicated that tensions with the coaching staff led to the Egyptian winger being temporarily left out of the squad by manager Arne Slot. This period of uncertainty fueled speculation about his potential departure.
Although Salah’s relationship with the coaching team has since improved, allowing him to return to regular action, the lack of clarity regarding his long-term role has left the door open for transfer rumors. Liverpool reportedly explored several scenarios for Salah’s future, with permanent transfers during the January window considered complex due to contract and valuation issues. A short-term loan was therefore seen as a more realistic option for all parties involved.
Real Madrid’s Perspective on Salah
Real Madrid’s interest in Salah emerged partly as a response to Kylian Mbappé’s recent injury. With the French forward sidelined, Madrid explored alternatives to maintain attacking depth. Salah, known for his pace, technical skill, and goal-scoring consistency, was identified as a potential solution to fill the temporary gap in their frontline.
In addition to Salah, Madrid reportedly received inquiries about other attacking options, including proposals from AS Roma. However, the financial requirements of the Salah deal—around €12 million for a six-month loan—were deemed disproportionate. From Madrid’s perspective, this expense did not align with their strategic approach to the January market, which often emphasizes minimal risk and short-term reinforcements without large outlays.
Ultimately, the club opted not to pursue the transfer, preferring to maintain financial flexibility while focusing on long-term squad planning. The decision underscores Real Madrid’s careful balancing act between acquiring elite talent and adhering to realistic budgeting principles, even when faced with short-term needs.
Financial Considerations and Transfer Strategy
One of the main reasons the Salah move failed to materialize was the high cost associated with a six-month loan. While €12 million might seem justified for a player of Salah’s caliber, Real Madrid weighed this against the temporary nature of the solution and other potential uses for their January budget.
Loans with significant fees can sometimes hinder a club’s flexibility, particularly when they are intended to cover short-term gaps. For Madrid, the expense would not have guaranteed a proportional impact on team performance, especially given that Salah would have had limited time to integrate into a new system.
By declining the deal, Real Madrid signaled their commitment to a measured transfer approach, favoring sustainability over reactive spending. The club’s focus remains on maintaining competitive balance while managing resources prudently, a strategy that has historically contributed to long-term success in both domestic and European competitions.
What’s Next for Salah and Liverpool
While the Real Madrid move did not materialize, Mohamed Salah remains a central figure for Liverpool. The club continues to rely on his goal-scoring ability and leadership on the pitch. Discussions regarding his future may continue beyond the January window, but for now, Salah’s focus remains on contributing to Liverpool’s campaign across all competitions.
Liverpool, meanwhile, must manage squad dynamics and ensure that any lingering uncertainties about player roles do not affect team performance. Salah’s return to the lineup indicates that relations with the coaching staff are stable, providing a foundation for consistent results in the coming months.
For Real Madrid, the brief consideration of Salah highlights the club’s ongoing efforts to secure elite talent when needed, but it also reflects a disciplined approach to transfer dealings. The decision not to pursue the Egyptian forward demonstrates how even high-profile opportunities are weighed carefully against strategic priorities.
Mohamed Salah’s potential transfer saga serves as a reminder of how financial prudence, squad planning, and player valuation all play crucial roles in top-level football. While the January window often sparks speculation and ambitious moves, clubs like Real Madrid balance ambition with strategy, ensuring that short-term decisions do not compromise long-term objectives.
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