Cristiano Ronaldo Pushes Al-Nassr to Hijack Rodrygo Deal

Cristiano Ronaldo has wasted no time after signing his record-breaking extension with Al-Nassr, urging the Riyadh giants to shelve their €85 million pursuit of Gabriel Martinelli and instead go head-to-head with Arsenal for Real Madrid winger Rodrygo. The Portuguese icon believes the 24-year-old Brazilian is the dynamic, top-level attacker who can turn near misses into silverware and finally bring continental glory to the Saudi Pro League club.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Transfer Wish List Comes Into Focus

While many marquee players have joined Saudi Arabia for lucrative contracts, Cristiano Ronaldo insists trophies, not paychecks, drive his second season in the Gulf. Sources close to the dressing room say the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has presented a shortlist to sporting director Goran Vucevic that highlights Rodrygo’s pace, press-resistance and Champions League pedigree. With a new two-year deal that reportedly pays €200 million annually, Ronaldo knows his legacy will be measured by silverware, and he views Rodrygo as the missing piece.

Why Rodrygo Ticks Every Box

Rodrygo combines explosive acceleration with an underrated defensive work rate, qualities Jorge Jesus values in wide forwards. Under Carlo Ancelotti, the Brazilian has floated between both flanks and central channels, developing a tactical versatility that would allow Al-Nassr to switch seamlessly between 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1 systems. Ronaldo is said to be impressed by Rodrygo’s clutch record—ten Champions League knockout goals before the age of 23—and believes that mentality will translate well to the Asian Champions League, where Al-Nassr fell agonizingly short last term.

Arsenal’s Calculated Gamble

Mikel Arteta remains keen on adding Rodrygo’s cutting edge to an attack that sometimes stalls against deep blocks. Arsenal’s willingness to off-load Martinelli for a nine-figure fee stems from a need to comply with Premier League profit-and-sustainability rules while reinvesting in a proven match-winner. Yet competing with Saudi wealth is no small task. Al-Nassr can meet Real Madrid’s £70 million valuation in one payment, whereas Arsenal would prefer structured installments with performance add-ons.

The Broader Saudi Pro League Ambition

Bringing Rodrygo to Riyadh would signal a tactical evolution for the SPL. Rather than relying solely on aging greats, clubs are targeting stars entering their prime. Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Neymar Jr. boosted global attention; signing a 24-year-old starter from Real Madrid would underscore the league’s long-term project. League officials hope the move will accelerate UEFA-style youth development programs and persuade CAF and AFC authorities to lobby for future Club World Cup berths.

Financial Firepower versus European Prestige

Madrid’s board, flush with Champions League revenue yet eyeing Kylian Mbappé, would welcome a quick sale to balance books. Nonetheless, Rodrygo favors staying in Europe unless promised a leading role and Champions League football—two lures Arsenal can provide. Al-Nassr counters with a reported €25 million net salary, image-rights freedom, and mentorship under Cristiano Ronaldo. Whether wealth can outweigh sporting ambition remains the central question.

Possible Roadblocks

• Real Madrid may delay negotiations until they secure Mbappé, keeping Rodrygo as insurance.
• Arsenal’s bid hinges on final Premier League standings and Champions League qualification.
• Saudi clubs still face skepticism from European agents about medical standards and competitive rhythm.
• FIFA regulations limit foreign players on SPL rosters; Al-Nassr would need to off-load at least one non-Arab star.

Where Does Gabriel Martinelli Fit Now?

If Al-Nassr redirect funds toward Rodrygo, Martinelli could stay at the Emirates or attract interest from PSG, who view him as a long-term Neymar successor. Arteta insists the Brazilian is “non-negotiable,” but the board’s financial realities differ. A Rodrygo arrival would intensify competition, potentially pushing Martinelli to explore options in Spain or France.

Jorge Jesus: The Tactical Conductor

Coach Jorge Jesus has already tightened Al-Nassr’s defensive structure, but sources say he seeks a winger comfortable hugging the touchline one minute and drifting inside the next. Rodrygo’s heat maps mirror those of Jesus’ favorite Benfica disciple, Nicolás Gaitán. Integrating the Brazilian alongside Ronaldo and Otávio could produce one of Asia’s most fluid front threes.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Legacy Play

Cristiano Ronaldo understands that every goal, assist and trophy in Saudi Arabia shapes the twilight chapter of his illustrious career. Pushing for Rodrygo is less about ego and more about crafting a sustained winning culture that survives after he hangs up his boots. Teammates describe Ronaldo as “obsessed” with small details, from nutrition to training intensity, and he sees like-minded professionalism in Rodrygo.

Timeline to Watch

• May: Real Madrid finalize Mbappé talks; Rodrygo’s future clarified.
• June: Arsenal open formal negotiations, contingent on outgoing sales.
• July: SPL summer window opens; Al-Nassr table all-cash offer.
• August: Player decision expected before European season kicks off.

Opinion: A Calculated Gamble Worth Taking

If Al-Nassr truly want to transcend showcase signings and build a dynasty, backing Cristiano Ronaldo’s judgment on Rodrygo is the bet to make. The Brazilian offers pace, end-product and resale value—traits rare in the current SPL influx. For Arsenal, losing Martinelli to finance the move could backfire if Rodrygo chooses Riyadh. Real Madrid, meanwhile, would quietly celebrate a windfall that funds their Galáctico 3.0 project. One thing is certain: wherever Rodrygo lands, the dominoes will reshape three continents’ transfer markets.