The future of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr is increasingly uncertain, with the club reportedly preparing for life without the Portuguese superstar this summer. Amidst a growing dispute with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) and a recent boycott of matches, Al Nassr are already eyeing potential replacements, including Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes. Meanwhile, speculation swirls about a potential return to Sporting CP for the 41-year-old.
Ronaldo’s discontent stems from a perceived lack of support in the winter transfer window, particularly in comparison to other Saudi Pro League clubs backed by the PIF, such as Al Hilal, who secured the signing of Karim Benzema. He missed a second consecutive game for Al Nassr on , a clear indication of his frustration. Sources indicate Ronaldo is actively protesting the situation, and the club appears resigned to the possibility of his departure.
Should Ronaldo leave, Al Nassr will turn their attention to Salah and Fernandes, both of whom have been long-term targets for the Saudi Pro League. The league officials are no longer concerned about losing Ronaldo, and are instead prioritizing securing a high-profile replacement to maintain the league’s growing appeal. A move for either player would represent a significant statement of intent.
However, a return to Sporting CP, where Ronaldo began his professional career, is also a distinct possibility. The Portuguese club has a £43 million release clause in Ronaldo’s contract that becomes active this summer, offering a concrete pathway for a reunion. This option would allow Ronaldo to continue playing at a high level while returning to his roots.
The situation extends beyond Ronaldo’s immediate future. Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a serious bid for Manchester City’s Rodri in the summer transfer window. Los Blancos are anticipating a potential overhaul at City following Pep Guardiola’s eventual departure and see Rodri as a key component in addressing a perceived lack of leadership within their squad. The Spanish international is viewed as a potential captain and a player who can bring experience and presence to the team.
Elsewhere in Europe, Manchester United are showing interest in Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli, while Chelsea are renewing their efforts to sign Porto striker Samu Aghehowa. Inter Milan and several MLS clubs are also monitoring Juventus’ Weston McKennie, whose contract expires in June. Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones is attracting attention from Newcastle United, and former Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is reportedly set to join Celtic as a free agent.
The transfer market is also seeing movement further afield. Flamengo are planning another attempt to sign Bournemouth striker Evanilson, while Paris Saint-Germain defender Emmanuel Mbemba is considering a move to either Bayern Munich or Bayer Leverkusen. Colombian playmaker Jhon Arias is set to join Palmeiras from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Gab Marcotti and Julien Laurens, speaking on , discussed Ronaldo’s strike, suggesting that the veteran forward needs to recognize that his individual desires are not paramount. This sentiment reflects a broader understanding that even a player of Ronaldo’s stature must operate within the framework of a team and a league.
The potential departures and arrivals highlight a dynamic transfer landscape, with Saudi clubs demonstrating increasing ambition and European giants preparing for potential changes in their squads. The coming months promise to be filled with further speculation and movement as clubs position themselves for success in the seasons to come. The situation with Ronaldo, in particular, remains fluid, with multiple potential outcomes still on the table.
The broader implications of Ronaldo’s potential exit extend beyond Al Nassr. His presence in the Saudi Pro League has undoubtedly raised the league’s profile, and finding a suitable replacement will be crucial to maintaining that momentum. Salah or Fernandes would bring significant star power, but their willingness to move to Saudi Arabia remains uncertain. A return to Sporting CP, while sentimental, might not have the same impact on the league’s global reach.
The pursuit of Rodri by Real Madrid underscores the importance of experienced leadership in top-level football. Guardiola’s future at Manchester City adds another layer of complexity to the situation, potentially creating an opportunity for Real Madrid to capitalize on any uncertainty. The transfer window, even in February, continues to be a period of intense activity and strategic maneuvering for clubs across the globe.
