The potential departure of Mohamed Salah from Liverpool FC is not just one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer—it could also trigger a chain reaction across multiple leagues. According to Corriere dello Sport, a move to Saudi Arabia, particularly to Al-Ittihad, may indirectly pave the way for Moussa Diaby to finally secure a switch to Inter Milan.
Saudi Arabia is leading the race for Salah
While Major League Soccer remains an outside option, the Saudi Pro League is currently the most realistic destination for Salah. Several clubs are actively preparing offers, including:
- Al Hilal, reportedly managed by Simone Inzaghi
- Al Qadsiah, featuring striker Mateo Retegui
- Al-Ittihad, coached by Sergio Conceiçao
Among them, Al-Ittihad are said to be the most serious contenders, reportedly preparing a two-year contract worth €100 million to lure Salah to the Middle East.
Why Diaby could be forced out
However, Salah’s arrival would not come without consequences. Squad space, tactical balance, and financial structure all need to be considered—meaning someone could make way.
That player is likely to be Moussa Diaby.
The French winger only joined Al-Ittihad in 2024 for around €60 million from Aston Villa, but his future has already been the subject of speculation. A move away—especially if Salah arrives—would help rebalance the squad while freeing up space for another superstar attacker.
Inter’s long-standing interest resurfaces
Inter’s interest in Diaby is not new. The Italian giants had already explored a move during the January transfer window, with reports suggesting that the player was open to the switch. However, negotiations broke down when Al-Ittihad resisted a loan deal with an option to buy.
Now, the situation may have changed.
Inter is looking to evolve its attacking structure, potentially reintroducing a 3-4-2-1 system that emphasizes pace, unpredictability, and quick transitions. Diaby fits that profile perfectly, offering:
- Explosive speed on the counter
- Versatility across attacking roles
- The ability to stretch defensive lines
His addition would allow Inter to become more dynamic, especially in matches where they need to protect a lead and strike on the break.
The likely transfer formula
Financially, any deal for Diaby will require careful structuring. Given Al-Ittihad’s significant investment, an immediate permanent sale may not be straightforward.
Instead, the most likely approach is:
- Initial loan deal
- Conditional obligation to buy (based on appearances or team performance)
This structure would reduce risk for Inter while giving Al-Ittihad a clear pathway to recoup their investment.
Crucially, Diaby himself could play a decisive role. Reports suggest he is keen on a return to European football, and with the right push from the player, negotiations could accelerate quickly.
A domino effect in motion
What makes this scenario particularly fascinating is how interconnected it is. Salah’s decision will not only define his own future but could also reshape attacking setups across continents.
- If Salah joins Al-Ittihad → Diaby likely leaves
- If Diaby leaves → Inter gains a key attacking weapon
- If Inter strengthens Serie A title dynamics could shift
In modern football, elite transfers rarely happen in isolation. This is a perfect example of how one blockbuster move can create ripple effects across multiple leagues.
Final thought
Salah’s next destination remains the headline story, but the potential consequences extend far beyond one player. For Al-Ittihad, it’s about making another global statement. For Inter, it’s about seizing an opportunity. And for Diaby, it could be the perfect chance to relaunch his European career.
As the summer window approaches, this evolving situation is one to watch closely—because one deal could unlock several others in rapid succession.
