Lead:
The Middle Eastern transfer window has intensified with major player movements between Europe and the Saudi Pro League. Several high-profile negotiations are advancing simultaneously, particularly involving Egyptian star Mohamed Salah and Brazilian midfielder Gabriel Sara, reshaping competitive landscapes across multiple continents. European football meanwhile continues its summer restructuring, with managerial changes and squad reinforcements underway ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.
Top Stories:
Mohamed Salah to Al-Ittihad — The Liverpool forward has granted preliminary approval to join the Saudi Pro League club following a reported offer worth approximately 25 million dollars. Negotiations with Turkish club Besiktas have stalled without a formal agreement, positioning Al-Ittihad as the leading contender for the Egyptian captain's signature.Gabriel Sara rejects Saudi move — Turkish journalist Ali Naji Kojuk reports that Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara has declined a transfer to the Saudi Pro League during the current summer window, despite interest from Al-Hilal and other domestic clubs.Al-Ittihad loan Mario Metai to Genoa — The Albanian left-back, age 22, has joined Italian Serie A side Genoa on a season-long loan with an option to purchase, confirmed by journalist Fabrizio Romano. The move allows Metai competitive first-team football while maintaining Al-Ittihad's financial control.Eddie Howe departs Newcastle United — The English manager has ended his five-year tenure leading Newcastle's first team after delivering the club's first major trophy. Howe's departure opens managerial opportunities across European football.Chelsea handed transfer embargo and fine — The English Football Association has suspended Chelsea from registering players for two transfer windows, with execution suspended, and imposed a 10 million pound sterling financial penalty following regulatory violations.AC Milan mourns Franco Baresi — The Rossoneri legend passed away at age 66 following an illness, leaving a historic legacy as one of Italian football's greatest defenders.What to Watch:
Newcastle United's preseason preparations in Spain continue with a friendly against Valencia scheduled for August 8, signalling readiness for competitive fixtures. The Saudi Pro League's 2026-27 season will launch August 13 with multiple clubs unveiling reinforced squads, while transfer activity involving Mohamed Salah and other elite players remains fluid through the window.