Any hopes of seeing Mohamed Salah in Major League Soccer appear to be on hold for now.
According to The Athletic, San Diego FC, the MLS expansion team owned by British-Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour, are not expected to make a move for the Liverpool superstar during the January transfer window.
While Mansour’s Egyptian roots and Salah’s global stature once made a U.S. move seem plausible, sources close to the club have dismissed the possibility, describing it as “unrealistic” and not a priority at this stage.
San Diego FC’s focus remains on building a sustainable long-term project rather than pursuing marquee signings prematurely.
Mohamed Salah is unlikely to move to the MLS
The club is prioritising the recruitment of younger players from South America and Europe to lay the foundation for their debut campaign.
Despite MLS Commissioner Don Garber publicly stating that the league would “welcome Salah with open arms,” insiders maintain that the logistical and financial challenges of signing the 33-year-old forward make such a deal highly improbable in the short term.
An MLS move would involve not only a complex salary structure but also competition from multiple Designated Player slots, making it a poor strategic fit for a club still finalising its infrastructure and squad framework.
While San Diego may not be an option, Salah’s future remains a hot topic elsewhere. Multiple reports suggest that Saudi Pro League sides, including Al Hilal, Al Nassr, and Al Qadsiah, are preparing new approaches for January.
The Public Investment Fund (PIF)-backed clubs have made Salah their top target for 2026, viewing him as the ultimate marketing icon to elevate the league’s international profile.
Salah faces uncertain future at Liverpool