Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr teammate keen on joining Jose Mourinho at Fenerbahce: Reports
According to Turkish outlet Spor Arena, Anderson Talisca, who plays alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr, is ready to join Fenerbahce. The Brazilian forward has been in fine form for the Saudi Pro side this season, registering eight goals in 17 games across competitions.
Talisca's contract with Al-Nassr expires in 2026 and there's already speculation regarding his future. Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has reportedly asked the club for reinforcements in 2025 and a shortlist has already been drawn.
Recent reports have suggested that Cristiano Ronaldo is on the Turkey giants' agenda. However, that has already been denied by acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Instead, Fenerbahce has apparently set their sights on Talisca. The 30-year-old already has experience of playing in Turkey with Besiktas. He is reportedly in talks for a return to the Super Lig next year.
Negotiations with Fenerbahce have progressed well and the Brazilian is apparently a step away from joining the club. Talisca spent three seasons with Besiktas from 2016 to 2018, registering 37 goals and 14 assists from 80 games in all competitions.
The news will be a huge blow to Al-Nassr, given that the player has a key part of their starting XI. Talisca has scored 76 goals and set up 10 more from 102 games for the Saudi side.
Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo's contract also expires at the end of this season. However, Romano claimed that the Portuguese ace is expected to sign a new deal with the Riyadh-based club soon.
When did Cristiano Ronaldo join Al-Nassr?
Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in December 2022 after parting ways with Manchester United. The Portuguese superstar had endured a difficult second stint at Old Trafford after arriving from Juventus in the summer of 2021.
Ronaldo fell out with former United boss Erik ten Hag as the 2022-23 season progressed and criticized the club and the Dutch manager in a controversial interview. The Red Devils terminated his contract and the 39-year-old decided to move to the Middle East.
Ronaldo has regained his mojo since the move and has been scoring goals for fun again. He has scored 13 goals and set up three more from 17 games across competitions this season.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner has found the back of the net 71 times in 81 games for Al-Nassr. He is the Riyadh-based club's fourth highest goalscorer in their history, five behind Talisca, who is on third. Mohammed Al-Sahlawi is the club's record goals scorer with 121 goals.