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Although the Liverpool forward recently made a dramatic winner at the Afcon tournament, his possible next career step to the Gulf kingdom could carry far greater significance. The Saudi Pro League (SPL), which has been moving away from aging veterans, is now intrigued with the idea of acquiring a regional legend who is still at the peak of his powers.

Moving Past the "Retirement League" Label

Despite the clear impact of high-profile arrivals like CR7 and Karim Benzema, league officials are determined to shake off the perception of being a final payday destination for fading stars. The interest of Mohamed Salah indicates a different ambition, heightened by his unique status as the preeminent sports icon in the Arab world.

This directional change aligns with a broader desire within the SPL to forge an enduring identity on the global scene. Is the aim to compete with established powers the English top flight, or maybe claim the position of the world's second-best league? With the initial wave of hype has subsided, defining a sustainable path is paramount.

Heeding Past Experiments

The experience of China's brief spending spree a decade ago offers a cautionary tale. Signing big names like Anelka and Didier Drogba generated buzz but did not establish a sustainable model, with those stars heading back to Europe quickly.

However, the Saudi project has witnessed the majority of its high-earning recruits remain for the long haul. Figures such as Benzema, Kanté, Sadio Mané, and Riyad Mahrez are now in their third year, with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the project into a fourth. Although deal expiries and advancing years are a factor, their ongoing commitment offers a degree of stability.

A Shift in Recruitment Policy

Observers note a clear move in signing policy. Teams are now more targeting players in their prime like Retegui, Darwin Núñez, and Theo Hernández, coupled with younger talents such as Nathan Zézé and Millot. Developing and potentially selling these assets for a gain forms a sensible long-term plan.

• Becoming a credible alternative to Europe for young players worldwide is an unique achievement.
• While not the most glamorous goal, it is a role no other competition has successfully filled.

The Salah Factor

Landing Mohamed Salah would deliver a tremendous lift. His signing would elevate the league's standing in the region to new levels. Existing stars of players like Riyad Mahrez and Bounou, alongside the passionate displays at the FIFA Arab Cup, highlight the region's football fervor and player pool.

Growing its reach across the African continent and Asia is a logical strategic move. Acquiring a player from Southeast Asia or unearthing the breakout Chinese global star could unlock enormous commercial opportunities.

Overcoming Scheduling Hurdles

Sustaining global viewership has been a significant challenge. The current campaign has been especially disjointed, with extended breaks for international windows and the Arab Cup disrupting the domestic schedule.

International TV partners report growing frustration in cultivating a loyal audience for a product that is broadcast in fits and starts. One source suggested that the erratic rhythm of the fixture list makes it hard to compete for attention in a crowded sports market.

If the SPL to achieve its global aspirations, officials must find a balance so the club football does not always take a back seat to the national team. Failing that, talk of joining a top-three league will be just that.

A Symbolic Signing

Although Mohamed Salah would bring instant glamour, his true value stems from his symbolic importance as a still-dominant iconic figure. Any potential move hinges on multiple factors: whether he wants to leave Liverpool, Liverpool's readiness to part ways, and his own choice in a move to the Gulf.

If a deal is struck, it would be viewed less as the acquisition of an aging Premier League star and more as the historic capture of the Arab world's premier footballing son.