Cristiano Ronaldo Set for New Al-Nassr Deal

Cristiano Ronaldo is edging closer to a contract renewal with Al-Nassr, according to Saudi-based contacts who spoke to BBC Sport. The current agreement with the Riyadh club was due to end this month, but a fresh two-year contract is nearing confirmation.

The Portuguese forward, who turns 40 this year, appeared to hint at a departure when he posted “the chapter is over” on social media following Al-Nassr’s final Saudi Pro League fixture in May. This fuelled talk of an exit, especially after FIFA president Gianni Infantino floated the idea of Ronaldo joining a Club World Cup contender, given Al-Nassr did not qualify for the expanded edition taking place in the United States.

Ronaldo confirmed he received proposals from clubs heading to that tournament but turned them all down.

Two weeks ago, Ronaldo helped Portugal lift the UEFA Nations League and has since decided to continue playing in Saudi Arabia. BBC Sport’s sources also suggest the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is evaluating business interests within the country.

The former Real Madrid, Juventus and Manchester United striker moved to Al-Nassr in January 2023. He has netted 99 goals across 111 matches for them, including 35 in 41 appearances last season—a tally that earned him the Saudi league’s Golden Boot.

Earlier this week, Al-Nassr moved on from coach Stefano Pioli, who lasted less than a season after arriving from AC Milan. Pioli’s side finished third in the Saudi Pro League, trailing champions Al-Ittihad by 13 points.

Ronaldo responded to Pioli’s exit with a message online: “Thanks for everything.” The 59-year-old Italian is expected to return to Fiorentina.