Liverpool chief close to quitting Anfield as he follows ex-team-mate to Saudi Arabia

Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is expected to depart Anfield for the Saudi Pro League this summer, marking another significant period of transition for the Premier League club. The 47-year-old is set to reunite with former colleague Simon Francis at Al-Hilal, with the Saudi giants having made a lucrative offer to tempt the executive away from Merseyside after his relatively short tenure.

Hughes moved to Anfield in March 2024 and signed a contract running until summer 2027, but reports indicate he is now poised to leave following what is expected to be his final transfer window at the club. The Saudi club is operating on the basis that Hughes will join their hierarchy, where Francis is already leading their transfer activity. The pair were teammates during their playing careers at Bournemouth and later colleagues in the club's technical department before Hughes departed for Liverpool.

Hughes remains focused on his current remit at Liverpool, overseeing transfer business and supporting new head coach Andoni Iraola, whom he previously worked with at Bournemouth. Working alongside Michael Edwards, Hughes was instrumental in appointing Arne Slot and managing a significant spending spree in the 2025 summer window. With the club now undergoing a leadership refresh following Slot's exit, this summer represents a natural closing chapter for Hughes, allowing for a managed transition period as Fenway Sports Group begins searching for a successor.

Al-Hilal, managed by former Inter coach Simone Inzaghi, boasts a star-studded roster including Karim Benzema, Ruben Neves and Kalidou Koulibaly. The Saudi club has been aggressive in pursuing top-tier European executive talent to mirror their on-pitch ambitions. By remaining through the summer window, Hughes will ensure stability for Iraola's tenure before making his move to the Middle East, marking the latest chapter in Liverpool's ongoing recruitment evolution.