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While the Liverpool forward delivered a late impact at the Afcon tournament, his potential future move to the Gulf kingdom could carry far greater significance. The Saudi Pro League (SPL), which has been moving away from aging veterans, finds itself intrigued with the idea of acquiring a global icon who remains at the height of his powers.

Moving Past the "Sunset Destination" Perception

Despite the clear impact of marquee signings like Cristiano Ronaldo and the French striker, those in charge are determined to avoid the reputation of being a final payday destination for players in decline. The pursuit of Salah signals a new strategy, intensified by his unique status as the biggest sports icon in the Middle East.

This strategic shift reflects a broader desire within the league to establish an lasting legacy on the world stage. Does it seek to rival leagues like the English top flight, or maybe claim the spot of the world's second-best competition? With the first surge of excitement has subsided, defining a coherent future is crucial.

Learning from Past Experiments

The example of the Chinese Super League's brief spending spree a decade ago serves as a cautionary tale. Bringing in star players like Anelka and Drogba generated buzz but did not establish a lasting foundation, with those stars heading back to European clubs swiftly.

However, the Saudi project has witnessed the majority of its high-earning recruits stay put. Figures such as Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kanté, Sadio Mané, and Riyad Mahrez are entering their third year, with Cristiano Ronaldo spearheading the project into a fourth. While deal expiries and advancing years loom, their continued presence provides a degree of continuity.

Evolving Recruitment Policy

There has been a clear move in recruitment. Teams are now more shopping for established stars like Retegui, Núñez, and Hernández, alongside emerging prospects such as Zézé and Enzo Millot. Developing and later transferring these players for a gain forms a sensible long-term plan.

• Establishing itself as a viable option to Europe for young players worldwide is an unique achievement.
• While not the most glamorous ambition, it is a role no other league has successfully filled.

Salah's Potential Impact

Securing Mohamed Salah would deliver a tremendous lift. His arrival would elevate the league's standing in the region to unprecedented heights. The presence of figures such as Riyad Mahrez and Yassine Bounou, alongside the passionate displays at the FIFA Arab Cup, highlight the region's deep passion and abundant talent.

Growing its reach across Africa and Asia is a logical strategic move. Signing a player from Southeast Asia or finding the breakout Chinese superstar could tap into enormous commercial potential.

Overcoming Scheduling Hurdles

Maintaining global viewership has proven a significant challenge. The current campaign has been particularly fragmented, with long pauses for international windows and tournaments hindering the league calendar.

Global broadcasters have expressed growing frustration in cultivating a loyal audience for a product that appears in irregular bursts. An insider noted that the stop-start nature of the season makes it challenging to vie for eyeballs in a crowded sports market.

If the SPL to achieve its global aspirations, planners will need to strike a better equilibrium so the domestic competition does not always take a back seat to the national team. Failing that, aspirations of joining a world elite will remain just that.

A Symbolic Signing

Although Salah would add instant glamour, his greater worth stems from his symbolic importance as a peak-performing iconic figure. A prospective transfer hinges on several big "ifs": his desire to leave Liverpool, Liverpool's readiness to sell, and his personal interest in a move to the Gulf.

Should it happen, it would be viewed less as the signing of an veteran from England and more as the historic capture of the region's greatest footballing son.