Liverpool star could BLOCK Ronaldo’s next move

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 23 May 2023 09:00 CDT
• 2 min read

Cristiano Ronaldo could find his path to the Saudi Pro League blocked if he fails to respond to Al-Nassr’s contract offer promptly.

Ronaldo is a free agent after being released by Manchester United in November following the broadcast of a bombshell interview in which he seriously criticised the club.

The Portugal international star, meanwhile, is struggling to find serious transfer options among Europe’s leading clubs - although Chelsea and Arsenal have both been linked with tentative interest – with Al-Nassr emerging as his likeliest destination.

Ronaldo has been offered a princely salary to move to the Saudi Pro League, but he may be forced to act quickly to secure the deal if reports in The Mirror are accurate.

MORE: Three Ronaldo replacements we KNOW are on Man Utd’s shortlist

Firmino to take Ronaldo's space at Al-Nassr?

The paper suggests that Al-Nassr are also looking at the possibility of signing Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino on a free transfer.

The Brazil international forward is out of contract in the summer and is free to discuss terms with overseas clubs from 1 January.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have reportedly offered Firmino a new contract at reduced terms but with the incentive of some attractive bonuses that are performance related.

MORE: Firmino contract offer a show of Liverpool’s FAITH in Darwin Nunez

Certainly, it seems that the Reds are ready to allow Darwin Nunez the opportunity to become their regular No.9, despite a mixed start to life in England. The question is now whether that relegation to second-choice forward might be enough to see Firmino, who is 31, try his luck elsewhere.

The prospect of Al-Nassr signing both Firmino and Ronaldo for the same spot appear to be limited, so if Cristiano is to take advantage of their big-money offer, he may need to rush to accept.

For Ronaldo, meanwhile, there has also been talk of the possibility of signing for Al-Hilal, although that deal could not take place until the summer, which would leave the 37-year-old in an uncomfortable state of limbo.