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While Egypt's star recently made a late impact at the Afcon tournament, his possible next career step to the Gulf kingdom could carry far greater significance. The Gulf football project, which has been moving away from aging veterans, is now intrigued with the idea of signing a regional legend who remains at the height of his powers.

Beyond the "Sunset Destination" Tag

Despite the clear impact of high-profile arrivals like CR7 and Karim Benzema, those in charge are keen to shake off the perception of being a final payday destination for players in decline. The pursuit of Mohamed Salah indicates a new strategy, heightened by his special position as the biggest footballing figure in the Arab world.

This strategic shift aligns with a broader desire within the league to forge an lasting legacy on the global scene. Is the aim to compete with leagues like the English top flight, or maybe secure the spot of the world's second-best league? Now that the first surge of excitement has faded, defining a coherent future is paramount.

Heeding Historical Precedents

The example of China's short-lived boom a decade ago offers a sobering lesson. Bringing in big names like Anelka and Drogba generated headlines but did not build a lasting foundation, with those stars heading back to Europe swiftly.

In contrast, the Saudi project has witnessed most of its star imports stay put. Figures such as Benzema, N'Golo Kanté, Sadio Mané, and Mahrez are now in their third seasons, with Ronaldo spearheading the initiative into a fourth. Although contract timelines and age loom, their continued presence offers a measure of stability.

A Shift in Transfer Strategy

Observers note a clear move in signing policy. Teams are increasingly targeting established stars like Mateo Retegui, Darwin Núñez, and Hernández, alongside emerging prospects such as Zézé and Millot. Developing and later transferring these assets for profit forms a sensible long-term plan.

• Becoming a viable option to Europe for global talent is an unprecedented feat.
• It may not be the most glamorous ambition, it is a role no other competition has managed to occupy.

The Salah Factor

Landing Mohamed Salah would provide a tremendous lift. His arrival would elevate the league's profile in the Arab world to unprecedented heights. Existing stars of players like Riyad Mahrez and Yassine Bounou, coupled with the passionate displays at the recent Arab Cup, underscore the region's football fervor and player pool.

Expanding its reach across Africa and the Asian market is a obvious next step. Signing a talent from Southeast Asia or finding the first Indian global star could unlock enormous commercial opportunities.

Overcoming Structural Challenges

Sustaining global viewership has proven a significant challenge. The current campaign has been especially fragmented, with extended breaks for international windows and the Arab Cup hindering the league calendar.

International TV partners report growing frustration in cultivating a loyal audience for a product that is broadcast in fits and starts. One source suggested 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 world-class ambitions, planners will need to strike a better equilibrium so the domestic competition does not always take second fiddle to the Saudi national side. Failing that, talk of becoming a top-three league will remain just that.

More Than Just a Transfer

Although Salah would bring immediate star power, his greater worth lies in his symbolic importance as a still-dominant iconic figure. Any potential move depends on several big "ifs": whether he wants to depart Anfield, the club's willingness to part ways, and his personal interest in a move to the Gulf.

Should it happen, it would be seen less as the signing of an veteran from England and more as the landmark signing of the region's premier sporting hero.