Retirement discussions surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo have emerged, with officials from the Saudi Professional League reportedly eyeing 50 prominent players to join him in the Middle East before he hangs up his boots. Notable targets like Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes aim to keep the league exciting as the 2034 World Cup approaches.
Recruitment: Saudi Pro League’s Ambitious Plans
According to talk sports, “dealmakers are planning to sign 50 peak-age foreign players this summer.” The quest for high-profile athletes is expected to gain momentum following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.
While the emphasis is on signing players who can contribute to the Saudi Professional League over the long term, some older stars are also on the radar, including Liverpool’s Salah, Manchester United’s Fernandes, Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, and Barcelona’s Lewandowski.
Top Targets: Salah and Fernandes on Saudi Shortlist
Reports suggest that Saudi officials are already conducting an “investigation into Salah” following a recent outburst against Liverpool. Michael Emenalo, Saudi Top League’s sporting director, stated, “We have had a long-standing relationship with Salah, which will influence the timing of his transfer.” Al Ittihad’s previous £150 million bid for Salah was turned down in 2023, but they may soon renew their efforts.
Al Ittihad may also target Manchester United’s Fernandes, especially with the potential departure of players like Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante at season’s end. The Portuguese midfielder has a €60 million release clause for non-Premier League clubs, indicating he’s open to new challenges.
Fernandes reportedly has a deal in place for a potential move to a Saudi club in 2025, with discussions surrounding a £700,000-a-week salary. Manchester United will reassess their options after this summer’s World Cup final.
Teammate Casemiro is also a long-term target for Saudi teams and could leave United as a free agent this summer.
Some other Premier League players are also under consideration, including Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana, as well as Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli. Al Nasr is poised to make a move for Martinelli, while Arsenal plans to reinforce their left flank.
Arsenal Transfer: Significant Funds Available for Vinicius & Co.
Beyond England, Real Madrid’s Vinicius is a target this summer, with Al Ahly reportedly having “substantial central funding” to facilitate the deal. Discussions regarding contract extensions for the player have stalled in Spain, while talks between Vinicius’ agency, Roc Nation Sports, and Saudi officials have been in progress for over a year.
Sources suggest that Saudi Arabia has received positive signals about the possibility of acquiring Vinicius, and offers are also being explored for veteran striker Lewandowski, who is now 37.
This push is backed by a “strategic shift” in Saudi Arabia, encouraging clubs to invest up to €2 billion annually on young talent. The funds are allocated based on a needs assessment and are intended for transfer fees, agent fees, and salaries.
Ronaldo Retirement Date: The GOAT Signs Contract Until 2027
The Saudi Pro League is already preparing for Ronaldo’s potential departure, anticipated in the summer of 2027 when the Portuguese superstar may retire from professional football. Even if CR7’s contract is extended to allow him to play past the age of 43, the league has strategies in place to maintain global interest following his exit. Options are also being explored to retain Ronaldo’s involvement by increasing his ownership stake in Al Nasr by 15 percent.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as it highlights the growing ambition of the Saudi Pro League to attract global talent, directly impacting the competitive landscape of football. The potential arrival of star players not only elevates the league’s profile but also shapes the future of international play, especially as the World Cup approaches.
