Roberto Firmino ‘in talks’ to join Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli after Liverpool departure

Roberto Firmino is reportedly in talks to sign for Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli after leaving Liverpool.

After eight trophy-laden years with Liverpool, it was confirmed that Firmino will leave Merseyside at the end of the 22/23 season.

Speaking about his departure from Anfield, Firmino told The Independent: “It is time, unfortunately.

“The cycle here is ended and I understand it is time to go. I am very proud for everything that I have done here with the team, what we achieved together and the beautiful history we made together. It was absolutely incredible. We are leaving a great legacy.”

Now a free agent, the 31-year-old has been linked with a host of different clubs.

According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, Firmino could be the latest big name to move to Saudi Arabia.

Romano claimed that Saudi Professional League side Al Ahli are in talks with the player. He tweeted: “Understand Al Ahli are in talks to sign Roberto Firmino. Negotiations ongoing, waiting for player’s final decision.

“Al Ahli are preparing medicals in case they get the green light later this week.”

Understand Al Ahli are in talks to sign Roberto Firmino. Negotiations ongoing, waiting for player’s final decision. 🟢🇸🇦 #Saudi

Al Ahli are preparing medicals in case they get the green light later this week. pic.twitter.com/k8MH6PCGvJ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 25, 2023

Aside from Firmino, Al Ahli is set to complete the signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who has seen his opportunities at Stamford Bridge drastically limited after a long injury layoff.

Back in January, Cristiano Ronaldo became the first big name to make the move to the Middle East after leaving Manchester United for Al Nassr.

Since then, Saudi Arabia have been splashing the cash in a bid to lure some of football’s biggest names to the country.

Ronaldo’s former Real Madrid teammate, Karim Benzema has since joined Al Ittihad, where he is joined by former Chelsea man N’Golo Kante.

Ruben Neves and Kalidou Koulibaly became the latest names to ditch European football for Saudi Arabia after signing for Al Hilal last week.

The likes of Riyad Mahrez, Son Heung-min, Bernardo Silva and Thomas Partey have all been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.