Following Portugal’s UEFA Nations League title win, speculation quickly turned to what might be next for Cristiano Ronaldo. The veteran forward has since confirmed that he will stay with Al Nassr for the upcoming season, effectively ruling out a move ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup. Meanwhile, reports indicate that a Spanish international could be joining him in Saudi Arabia.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano via X (formerly Twitter), Al Nassr have identified Spanish midfielder Fabián Ruiz as one of are top summer targets. “Fabián Ruiz, among top targets on the list at Al Nassr this summer as club plans to bring in new midfielder. No official proposal so far, he’s a key player for PSG as they want to keep him, and Luis Enrique considers him a crucial part of the team,” Romano reported.
Al Nassr will likely need to present a substantial offer to pry Ruiz away from Paris Saint-Germain. The Spanish midfielder played a pivotal role in PSG’s recent UEFA Champions League triumph and was instrumental in Spain’s run to the UEFA Nations League final. His elevated form has only increased his value, and any potential deal could require a higher bid than Al Nassr originally anticipated.
Reinforcing the squad appears to be a key part of Al Nassr’s long-term plan—not only to keep Cristiano Ronaldo at the highest level of competition but also to keep the five-time Ballon d’Or winner satisfied. The club has been actively seeking marquee talent capable of matching Ronaldo’s pedigree and ambition.
Fabian Ruiz of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final Second Leg match between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal FC
Cristiano Ronaldo commits to Al Nassr
The Portuguese captain officially confirmed his intention to remain with Al Nassr, putting an end to weeks of transfer rumors. With his current contract expiring on June 30, Ronaldo had been linked with several Club World Cup participants. But after lifting another international trophy, he made his future clear: “Future? Nothing will change. Al Nassr? Yes,” he said.
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Al Nassr sporting director Fernando Hierro recently stated that the club had entered discussions with Ronaldo regarding a contract extension. However, he admitted that several top clubs were competing to sign the global icon for what could be one final high-profile tournament.
Luis Díaz also on Al Nassr’s radar
As part of Al Nassr’s summer recruitment strategy, the club is reportedly targeting Colombian winger Luis Díaz. The Liverpool standout are seen as a prime candidate to bolster the Saudi side’s attacking options and to complement Ronaldo in the final third.
Romano also reported that Al Nassr plan to present Ronaldo with their long-term vision. “Al Nassr are set to present their plan to Cristiano Ronaldo, hoping to get a new deal sorted,” Romano posted. “The club is preparing changes to get Cristiano’s green light… and sign a new contract to continue at Al Nassr. Luis Díaz, David Hancko, a world-class midfielder, and more targets have been added to the summer shortlist.”
The addition of Fabián Ruiz to that list underscores Al Nassr’s intent to make waves in the transfer market once again—and to surround Ronaldo with elite-level talent capable of contending both domestically and on the international stage.