Saudi Arabian powerhouses Al Hilal, Al Nassr and Al Ahli have reportedly all withdrawn from the race to sign Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah this summer.
A transfer to the Saudi Pro League remains one of the more probable destinations for Salah as he edges closer to departing Liverpool, having been openly pursued by league officials for several years.
Middle Eastern interest may prove less widespread than anticipated, however, with ESPN confirming the three clubs are out of contention for Salah. They are straightforwardly described as "not interested" in the Egyptian star.
Nevertheless, a substantial offer is still expected from Al Ittihad, who notably fell short with a $200 million (£150 million) approach for Salah back in 2023. He is considered a prime target as the club seeks a new marquee name to fill the void left by the departing Karim Benzema.
Al Qadsiah are cited as the only other realistic Saudi option for Salah should he decide to make the move to the Middle East.
Can Al Ittihad Convince Salah to Join?

Ever since their high-profile pursuit of Salah three years ago, Al Ittihad have remained eager to secure a deal. Saudi officials are even believed to have regarded the 33-year-old as a top priority for quite some time.
The pathway to a transfer is now clear, and Al Ittihad are expected to table the kind of financial package capable of swaying Salah, who is reportedly open to the idea of joining the Pro League.
The hurdle for Al Ittihad, however, may lie in convincing Salah from a purely sporting standpoint.
Benzema's move to Al Hilal at the start of the year was a significant setback, and further high-profile departures could follow in the months ahead. The club's current standout player is former Aston Villa winger Moussa Diaby, though the Frenchman is reportedly eager to seek a move himself.
Youssef En-Nesyri and Roger Fernandes are among the other notable names at the club, along with Salah's ex-teammate Fabinho. However, reports suggest the former Liverpool midfielder may also be heading for the exit, with Manchester United's Casemiro identified as his preferred successor.
Al Ittihad's fading star quality has been mirrored by their league position. The reigning champions find themselves languishing in sixth place, a massive 25 points adrift of Cristiano Ronaldo's table-topping Al Nassr.
Salah may push for additional signings from Al Ittihad, especially given that rival suitors Al Qadsiah appear to offer a more competitive environment. They currently sit just seven points behind Al Nassr in fourth place.
A switch to Al Qadsiah would see Salah team up with former Real Madrid defender Nacho Fernández alongside attacking talents Mateo Retegui, Otávio and Julián Quiñones.
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