Journalist: MLS club eyes shocking 'ambitious' move to sign Liverpool star

As Mo Salah's contract with Liverpool nears its end, an unexpected suitor has emerged from across the Atlantic. San Diego FC, a new Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise set to debut in 2025, is reportedly interested in acquiring both Salah and Kevin de Bruyne from Manchester City. 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.

Mansour is a prominent figure with deep roots in football. He is the owner of the Right To Dream Academy in Ghana and Danish club FC Nordsjaelland, which underlines his commitment to developing talent and promoting success. His latest venture, San Diego FC, aims to shake up the MLS landscape by bringing in high-profile players like Salah and de Bruyne.

The club has already secured Mexican international Hirving Lozano, taking one of its three designated player spots. Adding Salah and de Bruyne to this squad would not only raise the club's profile, but also set a precedent in the MLS for recruiting European soccer stars at their peak. Mansour reportedly hopes his Egyptian roots could be an added attraction for Salah. Still, competition for Salah's signing is fierce with Saudi Pro League clubs in a strong position and willing to offer the Liverpool striker a sizeable wage package.

“Saudi teams would be willing to make the Egypt international one of the highest-paid players in the world to seal a deal. Mansour knows he can't compete, but “hopes his Egyptian connections can help,” Bailey writes in TBR Football.

While San Diego FC may not be able to match the financial clout of Saudi clubs, there are compelling reasons why Salah and de Bruyne could consider a move to MLS. De Bruyne in particular has expressed interest in experiencing life in the United States, and a stay in California could lead to the change in lifestyle he has hinted at in previous interviews.

For Salah, the decision could weigh heavily on both personal and professional factors. He would be the first Egyptian star to make such a move to MLS and could serve as a precursor to talent from North Africa and the Middle East in the league. Additionally, playing in the MLS could allow him to have a more balanced lifestyle as he approaches the later stages of his career, away from the intense media scrutiny of European soccer.

Mansour's willingness to invest in these standout players also signals a shift in MLS strategy, as clubs increasingly rely on European stars rather than relying solely on homegrown talent. However, it is worth noting that a move to Saudi Arabia still remains the most financially viable option for Salah should he part ways with Liverpool. Bailey explains: “The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is expected to make a formal contract offer to the Liverpool striker in the coming weeks.”

Meanwhile, Liverpool coach Arne Slot has set his sights on strengthening the club's midfield options. The Reds have been linked with Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi, whose summer move fell through despite Liverpool agreeing to honor his €60m release clause. Atalanta's Ederson is another potential target, creating further competition for a position that has seen recent additions including Ryan Gravenberch.

Slot remains unconvinced by Wataru Endo as a replacement option, pushing Liverpool to look for alternatives in the January transfer window. With Arsenal and Manchester City reportedly interested in Ederson, Liverpool could face a bidding war for the Brazil international.

The club's efforts to strengthen its squad underline a proactive approach to competing at the highest levels domestically and in Europe. Signing a player of the caliber of Zubimendi or Ederson would undoubtedly strengthen Liverpool's midfield and give Slot more depth and tactical flexibility. Bailey noted: “Liverpool remain interested in Zubimendi, but he is not the only midfielder on their shortlist.”

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 Premier League's most revered players. Moving to MLS, particularly a club as new as San Diego FC, would mark a shift from the relentless competition in Europe to a more developmental role and help raise the sport's profile in the United States.

However, Liverpool fans may find it difficult to imagine their beloved striker swapping historic Anfield for the sunny beaches of San Diego. Salah's contributions were invaluable and his departure would leave a significant hole in Liverpool's attacking formation. While the appeal of playing in the United States is undeniable, the move would undoubtedly have a lasting impact on his legacy at Liverpool.

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

For all of Mansour's interest, it should not be forgotten that Salah remains a popular figure at Liverpool, a club with its own plans for future success. Proponents could argue that Salah, who has always maintained a high level of professionalism and commitment to Liverpool, would be more inclined to finish his career in Europe. In a highly competitive league like the Premier League, moving to MLS may seem like a step backwards in terms of prestige and competitiveness.

With Arne Slot looking to strengthen the squad, Liverpool could be gearing up for another title challenge, which could potentially motivate Salah even more to stay and make one last attempt at glory with the Reds. A move to MLS could be attractive in the long term, but many fans believe there is unfinished business at Anfield.