Cristiano Ronaldo Urges Al Nassr to Improve Amid Kevin De Bruyne’s Saudi Interest and Al Hilal Links

The 2023/24 campaign went up in smoke for Al Nassr. Another empty-handed season for the Riyadh-based club as they failed to clinch any significant trophies. However, the focus now appears to have shifted towards fresh opportunities as they aim to bolster their ranks for the new season. With their long-term target, Kevin De Bruyne, being linked with Al Hilal, Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly ‘pushing‘ Al Nassr for major improvements.

talkSPORT’s Alan Brazil and Ally McCoist invited Saudi Arabian correspondent, Ben Jacobs to discuss KDB’s move away from Manchester City to the Middle East. While acknowledging that interest remains among the Gulf sides, he revealed behind the scenes of the top Roshn clubs who are looking to turn things around for the new season. “It needs to be more competitive between the PIF control clubs, which means that Cristiano Ronaldo will be pushing for Al-Nassr to improve,” said Jacobs.

“At the same for Al Ittihad, Karen Benzema is not going to stay unless they get reinforcements and I think that overall, the Saudi Pro League officials will want more teams competing,” added the journalist. It looks like the battle to improve has already begun for next season. Notably, De Bruyne has been a long-term target for Al Nassr. Attempts were made last year by Luis Castro and Co. to bring the midfielder from Eithad. But this year, joining the race for the Belgian.

With the 32-year-old’s contract expiring in the summer of 2026, both Saudi giants have a chance to get him for free. But signing him now would cost a fortune, with City not settling less than $80-$100 million. But it remains to be seen if either side will move forward with De Bruyne, considering they are battling for another star as well.

Former Manchester United teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo is on Al Nassr and Al Hilal’s radar

Al Nassr had been consistently linked with signing the former Sporting CP midfielder. However, according to CaughtOffside, the involvement of Al Hilal has compelled Yellow and Blue to strengthen their efforts in acquiring Bruno Fernandes. They are reportedly preparing a budget to secure the 29-year-old’s signature. Additionally, Fernandes is expected to receive a lucrative contract of around $76-$88 million per year.

Notably, he is currently under contract with Manchester United until 2026. However, recent difficulties faced by the Red Devils and the uncertain future of Erik ten Hag have reportedly caused the Portuguese star to reconsider his position at the club. His decision to stay might hinge on INEOS and United’s new project. While United would keep hold of him, Al Nassr and Al Hilal may go the extra mile to get his services.

It’s clear that Al Hilal is motivated to retain its dominance. On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo is keen to lead Al Nassr to glory. For now, let the battle for European stars continue.