Liverpool shake-up continues as Richard Hughes closes in on Al-Hilal move

Liverpool could be set for another major off-field change, with sporting director Richard Hughes reportedly expected to leave Anfield for Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal.

The 47-year-old executive is believed to be closing in on a move to Riyadh, where he would reunite with former Bournemouth colleague Simon Francis in what would represent another statement appointment by the ambitious Saudi club.

Hughes expected to join Al-Hilal project

According to The Athletic, Al-Hilal remain confident Hughes will eventually become part of their long-term project despite the Liverpool executive still being under contract until June 2027.

The Saudi Pro League outfit has been pursuing Hughes for several months and is reportedly prepared to offer an attractive financial package to convince him to leave Merseyside after a relatively brief spell at Anfield.

Although no agreement has been officially announced, Al-Hilal are said to be planning on Hughes arriving once Liverpool’s current transfer window concludes, allowing for a smoother transition.

Focus remains on Liverpool’s summer rebuild

Despite the growing speculation, Hughes remains fully focused on Liverpool’s recruitment plans this summer.

The sporting director is overseeing the club’s transfer strategy as new head coach Andoni Iraola begins preparations for his first season at Anfield. Hughes played a key role in appointing the former Bournemouth manager, having worked closely with him during their time together on the south coast.

Following a disappointing 2025-26 campaign, Liverpool are rebuilding with an emphasis on restoring intensity, energy and squad depth, making this one of the club’s most important transfer windows in recent years.

Should Hughes depart after the window closes, Fenway Sports Group would then begin the process of identifying his successor.

Reunion with Simon Francis

A move to Al-Hilal would reunite Hughes with Simon Francis, his former Bournemouth teammate and colleague.

Francis is already heavily involved in Al-Hilal’s football operations, with the Saudi club looking to recreate the successful working relationship the pair established in England.

The club continues to strengthen both on and off the pitch as it seeks to establish itself among world football’s elite organizations.

Al-Hilal’s growing ambitions

Al-Hilal have invested heavily in recent years, assembling one of the strongest squads outside Europe while also strengthening their executive structure.

Now managed by Simone Inzaghi, the Saudi side boasts a squad featuring stars such as Karim Benzema, Ruben Neves and Kalidou Koulibaly. The addition of Hughes would further underline the club’s strategy of recruiting elite European football executives alongside high-profile players.

With Liverpool’s summer business still ongoing, Hughes appears set to complete one final transfer window before embarking on a new challenge in Saudi Arabia.

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