Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia is facing a significant obstacle in finalizing the appointment of a new sporting director, due to Liverpool's stance on not letting go of one of its key officials.

Al Hilal places Scottish Richard Hughes at the top of its priorities for the position of sporting director, as part of its plan to develop the administrative and technical structure.

The management is striving to finalize the agreement with Hughes to start his duties from next summer, after presenting an attractive financial offer to persuade him to agree.

However, the negotiations are facing clear complications, as Liverpool is keen on retaining its sporting director, especially since he is under contract for an additional season.

Hughes is considered one of the prominent names in this position, having started his career with Bournemouth in 2016 before moving to Liverpool in 2020.

In another context, Al-Hilal is preparing to face Al-Ahli Saudi in the semi-finals of the King Cup of Champions.

The match is being held at the Inmaa Stadium in Jeddah, where Al Hilal is aiming to secure a victory and reach the final.

The winner of this summit will face the victor of the match between Al-Ittihad Saudi Club and Al-Khulood Saudi Club in the anticipated final.