Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly urged Al Nassr to strengthen their squad with a marquee signing from his former club, Real Madrid, as the Saudi giants look to bolster their chances for future success. With Ronaldo’s contract in Riyadh extended for two more years—taking him beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup—the Portuguese superstar is playing an active role in shaping the club's recruitment strategy.
While Al Nassr have already made waves in the transfer market by showing interest in Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli, the latest reports suggest that Ronaldo is pushing for a more strategic target—Real Madrid winger Rodrygo Goes.
Cristiano Ronaldo pushes for Rodrygo over Martinelli
According to Mundo Deportivo, Al Nassr recently tabled an €85 million bid for Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli, a move Arsenal are considering as it would help finance their own pursuit of Real Madrid’s Rodrygo. However, as reported by Sky Sports, Cristiano Ronaldo has advised the Saudi club to join the race for Rodrygo themselves, believing the Real Madrid star would be a better fit for Al Nassr’s long-term vision than Martinelli.
The 24-year-old Brazilian has found himself sliding down the pecking order at Madrid, especially following a quiet Club World Cup campaign. With new tactical plans emerging under Xabi Alonso, Rodrygo's role has diminished—making a summer exit increasingly plausible.
Rodrygo weighing his options
Despite Ronaldo’s endorsement and Al Nassr’s potential offer, a deal is far from guaranteed. Rodrygo is still in the prime of his career and may prefer to stay in Europe, where he remains in contention for Champions League and World Cup ambitions. A switch to Saudi Arabia would likely remove him from that elite competitive spotlight.
The player now faces a crucial decision—whether to chase silverware in Europe or accept a lucrative offer and join Cristiano Ronaldo’s ambitious project in Riyadh.
Al Nassr’s transfer ambition grows
Al Nassr’s aggressive approach in the transfer market underlines the Saudi Pro League’s continued effort to attract world-class talent. With Ronaldo leading the charge not just on the pitch but off it, the club is making it clear they are not just chasing regional dominance—but global recognition.
If Ronaldo gets his wish, Rodrygo could soon be the latest jewel in the Middle East’s football crown.