Cristiano Ronaldo might extend his Al Nassr contract by another year with his current deal set to expire in 2025, talkSPORT understands.
Ronaldo agreed a lucrative deal worth €200million [£177m] per year in 2022 which is set to expire next year but there is the possibility that he could stay for another year.
Speaking on talkSPORT’s Hawksbee & Jacobs Show, talkSPORT’s Saudi Pro League correspondent, Ben Jacobs, revealed how the 39-year-old could extend his contract.
It came amid talk that the Saudi Pro League are eyeing a move for Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes to continue their strong presence in Portugal, which has been built up by Ronaldo.
“2025 is a really key year in Saudi Arabia for two reasons,” Jacobs said.
“One, because Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract expires, although my understanding is that he may renew for one year.
“And two, the television rights are up for renewal and, as you can imagine, in Egypt with Mohamed Salah and Portugal with Ronaldo and/or Bruno Fernandes, there could well be big audiences and lucrative renewals to be had.
“Depending on if Ronaldo stays, if Fernandes joins and if Salah arrives, and as a consequence, the next 12 months are all about planning who is going to resonate with the international audience.
“I am told that the Saudi dealmakers want another marquee star from Portugal because they have built up an audience through Ronaldo.
“If Fernandes comes in 2025 or, potentially but less likely, 2024 then that is a continuation which means maybe you retain that audience and cash in on that audience when the renewal comes up in 12 months time.”
Ronaldo has been a big hit since moving to Saudi Arabia following his acrimonious exit from Old Trafford.
In 66 appearances, he has scored 62 times including 47 in 44 league appearances.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s arrival has also blazed the trail for other European big-name exports including Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez.
But at the age of 39, Ronaldo might be running out of gas and by the time his contract expires in 2025, he will be 41 – and the prospect of another year would only push that further.
News Summary:
- Cristiano Ronaldo might extend Al Nassr stay by another year
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