Liverpool legend set for shock Saudi Arabia exit
Cameron Smith
- 7 Nov 2023 14:10 CST
- 3 min read
Liverpool legend Roberto Firmino could leave Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli after just six months, with reports suggesting the Brazilian could be sold during the January transfer window.
Firmino, 32, joined Al-Ahli on a free transfer this summer following the expiration of his Liverpool contract in June.
He was one of three Liverpool players to move to Saudi Arabia during the most recent transfer window, alongside countryman Fabinho and Reds club captain Jordan Henderson, as some of the best players in the world made the jump to the lucrative Middle East.
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However, Firmino’s stay at Al-Ahli could be short-lived following reports they will look to offload him this winter.
TEAMTalk have reported that Al-Ahli are prepared to listen to offers for Firmino in January to make room for any potential new arrivals. The Brazilian is currently occupying one of the Saudi Pro League side’s foreign player spots and his departure would free up space for another big-money move.
Firmino’s potential availability has reportedly alerted several clubs in Europe and South America, with the former Brazil international set to become a transfer talking point once again.
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Despite scoring a hat-trick on his debut for Al-Ahli, Firmino has failed to score for his new team since and his goalless drought extended to 12 games during their 3-0 win over Al-Riyadh on Sunday.
Firmino was dropped to the bench for that game, with former Barcelona and AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie handed the captain’s armband instead. Firmino came on for the final eight minutes, but was unable to end his goal-scoring drought.
Who should Firmino join?
FootballTransfers’ data analytics partner SciSports rate West Ham United as Firmino’s best destination.
SciSports’ ‘Career Advice’ tool analyses a variety of different factors using an AI-driven algorithm to determine which club is the best fit for any given footballer.
Roberto Firmino's best transfer options
| Club | Club Fit Score |
|---|---|
| 1. West Ham | 80 |
| 2. Fulham | 79 |
| 3. Valencia | 78 |
| 4. Marseille | 77 |
| = Everton | 77 |
While West Ham are believed to be Firmino’s best transfer choice, Fulham, Valencia, Marseille and Everton are also better fits than his current club, Al-Ahli.
