Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr offer mega contract to make Real Madrid star highest-paid footballer in the world in his position: Reports
Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr are reportedly considering a swoop for Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger this summer.
According to SkySportDe (via Madrid Xtra), the Saudi club are offering the centre-back a mega contract that would see him become the highest-paid defender in the world.
Rudiger has cemented his standing as one of the leading centre-backs in Europe in recent years. His reputation as a reliable defender grew during his final seasons at Chelsea where he won the Champions League before leaving as a free agent in 2022.
The 31-year-old had a relatively quiet debut season in Spain, but returned to his best form, securing a first-team spot in the 2023-24 season as Los Blancos clinched La Liga and the UEFA Champions League.
As per the reports, Al-Nassr are not the only club interested in bringing the German defender to the Middle East. Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal have also shown interest in the former Chelsea star.
However, it's highly unlikely that Rudiger will be parting ways with Los Blancos this summer. His contract with the current European champions doesn't end until 2026. Furthermore, the player is still a key member of Carlo Ancelotti's setup, and fellow centre-back David Alaba is still recovering from an ACL injury that could keep him sidelined until 2025.
Real Madrid looking to reinforce backline with 18-year-old Leny Yoro
While they have no plans of letting go of Antonio Rudiger, Real Madrid are out to bolster their defensive options and have identified French youngster Leny Yoro as a major target.
His club Lille have valued the 18-year-old at around €50 million, but Real Madrid do not plan to pay more than €40 million for his signature as reported by Transfer News Live. Manchester United are also interested in the French defender and have tabled a five-year contract with the option of a further year according to the the same report.
It is widely speculated that Yoro will choose between Madrid or Manchester as a potential destination this summer. Real Madrid have already lost long-time serving defender Nacho to Saudi Arabian club Al Qadsiah, making the signing of a defender a top priority this summer.