Mohamed Salah has named Chelsea as his preferred English club on 14 Jul 2026, signalling a possible Premier League return after his Liverpool contract expired. The Egypt international, 34, is weighing offers from Saudi giants, Turkish sides and Italy, but the Blues stand out as the only team that could lure him back to England.
What sparked the Chelsea interest?
Egyptian journalist Ahmed Darwish told Al‑Horia that Chelsea is the sole English outfit capable of convincing Salah to stay in the Premier League. Darwish cited the club’s recent rebuilding under Xabi Alonso as a key factor, noting that a Chelsea bid would be Salah’s "top choice" if he remains in England. No official approach has been confirmed, but the rumor mill is buzzing with speculation.
How does this fit into Salah’s career timeline?
Salah first arrived in England when Chelsea signed him from FC Basel in Jan 2013. He logged 19 appearances, scoring two goals and providing three assists before loan spells sent him to Fiorentina and then Roma, where he was sold in 2016. A year later he joined Liverpool, amassing 257 goals and 123 assists in 442 matches. The potential Chelsea move would mark his second stint in the capital, echoing his early Premier League experience.
Which other suitors are in the mix?
Beyond Chelsea, Saudi club Al‑Hilal reportedly offered a three‑year contract worth €20 million per year, according to a July 2026 Sport Witness report. Turkish powerhouses Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe and Beşiktaş have also put forward "strong offers," while Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti expressed interest in adding the Egyptian star to his squad. Darwish now argues that a Saudi deal no longer outweighs the European options.
What could a Chelsea signing mean for the club?
If Salah signs, Chelsea would gain a proven goal scorer with a record of delivering in high‑pressure games. His experience could complement a youthful attacking line‑up and provide a proven Premier League pedigree. The club, currently rebuilding under Alonso, would also benefit from Salah’s commercial appeal, especially in the Middle East and Africa.
What’s next for the transfer saga?
The summer window remains open, and Salah’s agent has yet to release a formal statement. Fans can expect further updates as clubs negotiate terms and medicals. Whether the Egyptian forward will don a blue shirt or head elsewhere hinges on contract details and personal ambition. For now, Chelsea sits at the top of his shortlist, and the Premier League watches closely.