Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr unlikely to sign Manchester City star after initial €30m proposal for player was rejected: Reports
Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr have been dealt a massive blow as they are now unlikely to sign Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson after their €30 million proposal was rejected. The Cityzens want €60 million for the Brazilian's services, which has led to negotiations currently stopping, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Al-Nassr are in the market for a new shot-stopper after David Ospina departed earlier this summer as a free agent. While Nawaf Al-Aqidi is expected to return to the first-team squad after his suspension, the Knights of Najd are reportedly keen on upgrading.
Manchester City's Ederson emerged as a possible option with the 30-year-old reportedly being open to the move. He has kept 155 clean sheets in 332 appearances across all competitions for the Cityzens over the past seven seasons, helping them win 17 trophies.
However, the move appears to be off for now due to Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr failing to meet City's valuation of Ederson, which is reportedly €60 million. The Riyadh-based outfit have moved on to their next transfer target - Athletico Paranaense's Bento.
Bento is reportedly on their shortlist and talks between the two clubs have started. The 25-year-old had a stellar season for the Brazilian club, keeping 14 clean sheets in 27 appearances across all competitions, and could be a more affordable option for the SPL outfit.
How did Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr fare last season?
Al-Nassr are looking at bolstering their squad for the 2024-25 Saudi Pro League and have been linked with several superstars, including Ederson, Virgil van Dijk, Casemiro, and Bruno Fernandes. Let's take a look at how Cristiano Ronaldo and Co. fared last season.
While the Knights of Najd were fairlsay consistent in the league, they were overshadowed by their rivals, Al-Hilal. The latter remained unbeaten in the SPL, finishing first with 96 points from 34 games, whereas Al-Nassr finished in second place with 82 points, winning 26 games, drawing four, and losing four.
Al-Alami failed to win any trophy, crashing out in the quarter-finals of the AFC Champions League, and semi-finals of the Saudi Super Cup. They then suffered a heartbreaking loss in the King Cup of Champions final, losing to Al-Hilal on penalties.
One bright aspect of their season was Cristiano Ronaldo's form. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner had an excellent campaign, recording 44 goals and 13 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions, winning the SPL's Golden Boot as well.