Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly taken on a larger role in squad planning at Al Nassr following his contract extension through 2027. As preparations ramp up for the 2025–26 season, the Portuguese star is said to have set his sights on a former Manchester United teammate.
After a trophyless 2024–25 campaign, Al Nassr underwent a significant overhaul at the executive level. Ronaldo seized the opportunity to expand his influence, helping bring in Jorge Jesus as head coach, Joao Felix as a player, longtime friend Jose Semedo as acting CEO, and Simao Coutinho as sporting director. Now, he’s believed to be pushing for another signing.
According to Marca, Al Nassr are targeting Mason Greenwood of Olympique Marseille. The English forward played alongside Ronaldo briefly at Manchester United, and now the five-time Ballon d’Or winner wants to reunite with him in Saudi Arabia.
After being removed from Manchester United’s plans, Greenwood was put on the transfer market during the summer of 2024. While Saudi clubs expressed interest, the forward opted to remain in Europe, accepting a €26 million offer from Marseille.
In his first season in Ligue 1, Greenwood rediscovered his form, scoring 22 goals and adding 6 assists in 36 appearances. Marseille finished second in the league and clinched a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League. With Otavio expected to depart, Greenwood is seen as a strong fit to fill the right wing role at Al Nassr.
see also
Cristiano Ronaldo makes statement in pre-season return under Jorge Jesus: Al-Nassr star sends clear four-word warning after scoring vs. Toulouse
Greenwood could prove a tough get for Al Nassr
Jhon Duran and Seko Fofana have already exited the club, while Aymeric Laporte and Otávio are also expected to leave to create financial flexibility for a Greenwood bid. The 22-year-old currently carries a €40 million market valuation, according to Transfermarkt.
However, securing Greenwood won’t be easy. Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano recently reported that although Al Nassr are highly interested in the forward, Marseille’s expected asking price could be too steep, not just for Al Nassr, but for any club in the Saudi Pro League.
Complicating matters further, Greenwood already rejected a move to Saudi Arabia once, choosing to continue his career in Europe. While the forward is clearly a target, Marseille view him as a cornerstone of Roberto De Zerbi’s project. With Champions League soccer returning to the Stade Vélodrome, Al Nassr face several obstacles before turning this pursuit into what would be another high-profile signing.
