Cristiano Ronaldo update blocks Barca link to Premier League target

Al Nassr have set out their stance over the immediate future of Cristiano Ronaldo after a clear indication he wants to leave the club.

Ronaldo’s current contract in Riyadh expires at the end of June with the 40-year-old posting on social media how ‘this chapter is over’ as he looked set to leave.

The Portugal international remains laser focused on leading his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup next summer and that will shape his next move.

However, club sporting director Fernando Hierro has indicated Al Nassr are prepared to hold the former Real Madrid superstar to the small print of his agreement until June 30.

That would restrict him from joining a club in time for June’s Club World Cup but their chances of retaining him beyond the summer appear unclear.

Who can replace Ronaldo at Al Nassr?

Ronaldo looks to have made up his mind on staying at Al Nassr – and despite their best efforts – he is still expected to move on.

A switch to SPL rivals Al Hilal is an option alongside rumoured offers from Brazil, Turkey and first club Sporting CP.

That has reignited speculation over who could replace him and reports from The Telegraph indicate Liverpool winger Luis Diaz is the No.1 target despite his links to Barcelona.

Saudi interest could block Barcelona in Diaz race

Barcelona are already growing concerned over the practicality of brining in Diaz this summer with his ongoing Liverpool contract running until 2027.

Diaz’s interest in joining Barcelona is an open secret at this stage but there is still a gap to bridge in terms of a formal offer.

Liverpool want to keep the Colombian international at Anfield next season, despite Arne Slot’s planned squad changes, and Darwin Nunez appears to be the most likely exit candidate with Atletico Madrid and Benfica interested in the Uruguayan.