Saudi backers in ‘difficult’ talks to keep Cristiano Ronaldo, drop Club World Cup hint
Ronaldo had said ‘chapter is over’ as Al-Nassr deal nears end, but Fifa president Gianni Infantino suggested he could play at Club World Cup
Saudi Arabian officials are in “difficult” talks to keep Cristiano Ronaldo in the country, a source with knowledge of the negotiations said on Thursday, after the star footballer suggested he was leaving Al-Nassr.
“There is an ongoing difficult negotiation to convince Ronaldo to stay and play” in the Saudi Pro League next season, said the source from the Public Investment Fund (PIF), a major investor in Saudi football.
“First option is a transfer to Al-Hilal with an opportunity to feature in the Fifa Club World Cup, or to Asia champion Al-Ahli,” the source said.
Ronaldo posted “this chapter is over” overnight on Monday, hours after the Saudi Pro League wrapped up with Al-Nassr finishing third and trophyless once again.
A special transfer window opens from June 1 to 10 to allow the 32 teams involved in the Club World Cup to sign players.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino last week said “there are discussions” over the former Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Sporting Lisbon star playing at the enlarged tournament in the United States starting on June 14.