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Roberto Firmino has agreed to join Saudi Pro League team Al Ahli as a free agent this summer.
After his medicals, the 31-year-old will finalize his move to Saudi Arabia, since his contract with the Merseyside club expires today, June 30.
Firmino joins a slew of talents who have left Europe for the Gulf state. Saudi Arabia is paying exorbitant fees to entice athletes.
He will join former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who joined the newly promoted Al Ahli earlier this summer.
Roberto Firmino was courted by Inter Milan, Barcelona, and Galatasaray before deciding to relocate to the Middle East.
Roberto Firmino has joined Saudi League team Al Ahli after leaving Liverpool FC
Firmino joined Liverpool for £29 million from TSG Hoffenheim in 2015 and quickly became a fan favorite throughout his eight years at the club.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp turned him from an attacking midfielder to a center-forward. He successfully linked play between the midfield and the offense.
He also worked effectively with teammates Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah. They were victorious in the FA Cup, EFL Cup, and Premier League.
They also won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup.
In 362 appearances for Liverpool, Firmino scored 111 goals and assisted on another 79. In almost 30 games this season, he has 13 goals and four assists.
Klopp apparently wanted to keep him at Liverpool, but the club chose to let him leave.
As his major center-forward alternatives, the German manager must choose between Cody Gakpo, Darwin Nunez, and Diogo Jota. A striker is not among their summer transfer priority.
In addition to Firmino, Liverpool has released Naby Keita, James Milner, and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
After a poor stay in England, Keita returns to Germany, while Milner has signed with Brighton & Hove Albion for next season.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s future is unknown, although it is most likely not with Liverpool.
