While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad's summer recruitment strategy. Cristiano Ronaldo has unexpectedly found himself connected to one of the biggest transfer stories involving one of Al-Nassr’s fiercest Saudi Pro League rivals. While the Portuguese superstar continues preparing for another season in Saudi Arabia, developments away from the pitch have placed his growing soccer business interests in the spotlight alongside Al-Ittihad’s summer recruitment strategy. The latest move has raised eyebrows across the league, especially as Al-Ittihad moved quickly to strengthen its squad while Al-Nassr is still waiting to complete its first major signing of the transfer window. Ronaldo’s investment outside Saudi Arabia has now played an indirect role in helping one of the club’s biggest domestic competitors. Al-Ittihad has officially completed the signing of Senegal midfielder Dion Lopy from Spanish club Almeria, making him the club’s first overseas arrival of the summer transfer window. According to reports from Al-Riyadiah and several other outlets, the 24-year-old signed a long-term contract after the Tigers agreed to pay approximately $15 million, with the transfer fee scheduled to be paid in installments. The deal also reportedly includes a 10% sell-on clause in favor of Almeria should Lopy be transferred again in the future. The Tigers’ midfield is under the Black Panther’s command 🇸🇳🐅 pic.twitter.com/wDtEPNLc6U— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 The Saudi club confirmed the transfer through an announcement on its official social media channels, although it did not disclose the financial details. Ronaldo’s Almeria investment creates unexpected link The transfer carries an unusual twist because Almeria is partially owned by Cristiano Ronaldo. Earlier in 2026, Ronaldo acquired a 25% ownership stake in the Spanish club, expanding his soccer portfolio while continuing his playing career with Al-Nassr. That investment means one of Ronaldo’s clubs has now completed a profitable sale to Al-Ittihad, a direct Saudi Pro League rival that continues to challenge Al-Nassr for domestic honors. The timing has attracted attention because Al-Ittihad has already secured its first major foreign signing, while Al-Nassr has yet to bring in a new player during the current transfer window. Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al-Nassr FC competes for the ball with Ahmed Al-Julaydan of team Al-Ittihad FC The Senegal international joins Al-Ittihad following the departure of Brazilian midfielder Fabinho, whose contract expired at the end of last season. Lopy primarily operates as a defensive midfielder, although he is also capable of playing in a deeper central role. His versatility is expected to provide additional balance in midfield as the club prepares for the upcoming Saudi Pro League campaign. Since arriving at Almeria from Stade Reims in 2023, Lopy made 105 appearances, scoring four goals and contributing six assists across all competitions. Tansfer that benefits everyone The midfielder built a reputation in Spain through his physical presence, defensive awareness and ability to recover possession. During the 2025-26 campaign, he featured regularly in midfield while also contributing going forward with three goals and two assists in league competition. Statistical reports highlighted his impact in defensive situations, including strong numbers for tackles, interceptions, ball recoveries and aerial duels. His passing range also made him an attractive option for a possession-based side looking to strengthen its midfield. From the Land of Teranga 🇸🇳 to the Tigers’ Den 🐅 pic.twitter.com/9qz0cG9wQO— Al-Ittihad Club (@ittihad_en) August 5, 2026 For Al-Ittihad, the signing addresses an important gap left by Fabinho’s departure while adding an experienced international midfielder entering
While Lionel Messi remains among the world's highest earners, the newest rankings reveal that the Portuguese icon has stretched his advantage, highlighting the growing financial influence of Saudi Arabian soccer. Cristiano Ronaldo continues to dominate the financial landscape, with the latest global salary figures placing him comfortably ahead of the sport’s biggest stars. While Lionel Messi remains among the world’s highest earners, the newest rankings reveal that the Portuguese icon has stretched his advantage, highlighting the growing financial influence of Saudi Arabian soccer. The latest data also underlines how dramatically the sport’s salary landscape has evolved in recent years. Players representing the Saudi Pro League now occupy several places among the world’s best-paid players, while stars from Europe’s biggest leagues continue to feature prominently. According to salary figures compiled by Capology, via Planet Football, Cristiano Ronaldo earns an estimated £3.42 million per week in base salary at Al-Nassr, keeping him at the top of world soccer’s wage rankings. The report states: “Cristiano Ronaldo still ranks as the highest-paid player in the Saudi Pro League and world football, earning a whopping £3.4 million per week with Al-Nassr.” Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates with the Saudi Pro League Trophy. Those figures are based solely on base wages and do not include bonuses, image rights, signing fees or commercial endorsements, meaning Ronaldo’s overall annual earnings are significantly higher. Messi returns to the rankings The latest list also marks Lionel Messi’s return to the global weekly salary rankings following his move to Inter Miami. Messi is ranked 13th with an estimated weekly base salary of £360,876, leaving a remarkable financial distance between the longtime rivals. While both remain among soccer’s biggest global icons, the latest figures illustrate how Ronaldo’s Saudi contract has transformed the earnings race. The comparison also reflects the different career paths taken by the two superstars during the latter stages of their playing careers, with Ronaldo moving to Saudi Arabia while Messi chose Major League Soccer. Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF lifts the Champion’s trophy after winning the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Final Saudi Arabia dominates the highest earners One of the biggest takeaways from the rankings is the growing financial strength of the Saudi Pro League. Six Saudi Pro League players appear among the world’s 15 highest-paid players, confirming the league’s ability to attract elite talent through record-breaking contracts. Karim Benzema sits second after Ronaldo with an estimated £2.01 million per week, while Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly, Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, Ivan Toney and Ruben Neves also feature on the list. Their presence reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued investment in world-class soccer with clubs competing for domestic and continental success. Cristiano Ronaldo (L) of Al Nassr and Karim Benzema (R) of Al Hilal. Top 15 highest-paid players by weekly base salary Cristiano Ronaldo — £3,421,039Karim Benzema — £2,010,107Sadio Mané — £656,629Kalidou Koulibaly — £569,626Erling Haaland — £525,000Kylian Mbappé — £512,992Sergej Milinković-Savić — £418,765Ivan Toney — £418,765Vinícius Júnior — £410,393Harry Kane — £410,393Jamal Musiala — £374,771Darwin Núñez — £368,533Lionel Messi — £360,876Virgil van Dijk — £350,000Rúben Neves — £343,417
Cristiano Ronaldo could have Mohamed Salah as a rival, after reports indicate the forward is close to joining the Saudi Pro League. Mohamed Salah could soon share a league — and a rivalry — with Cristiano Ronaldo. The Egyptian forward, who departed Liverpool as a free agent after nine years at Anfield, remains on course for a move to Al Ittihad, in what would set up direct confrontations with Ronaldo’s Al Nassr for years to come. Al Ittihad have offered Salah an annual salary in the region of $25 million, and the 33-year-old has reportedly accepted those terms in principle, with the move said to be approaching its final stages. However, the deal is not entirely in Salah’s hands. Al Ittihad had initially planned to sell Moussa Diaby this summer to make room for the Egyptian on the right wing, but the club reversed course in late July, confirming they had no intention of letting the Frenchman go. That stance has since been complicated by Diaby himself, who has pushed to leave and is reportedly in direct contact with Inter Milan over a move to Serie A, while Bayer Leverkusen — his former club — are also working to bring him back to the Bundesliga on reduced wages. Until Al Ittihad resolve Diaby’s future, Salah’s arrival remains contingent on a spot opening up in the squad. Moussa Diaby of Al Ittihad. (Getty Images) Should the move go through, Salah would find Ronaldo waiting on the other side of the Saudi Pro League table. Ronaldo, who signed a contract extension with Al-Nassr through 2027, led the club to the Saudi Pro League title last season, and the prospect of Salah joining as a direct rival has added an extra layer of intrigue to a transfer saga that has dragged on for months. Turkey also keeping tabs on Salah Al Ittihad are not the only side being linked with Salah, and Turkey has re-emerged as a talking point in recent days. Trabzonspor were reported to have moved ahead of Besiktas in the race, with some Turkish outlets claiming the two sides were closing in on personal terms for a two-year deal. However, Trabzonspor president Ertugrul Dogan shut that down directly, stating, “there is no such agreement,” and adding that no talks had even been scheduled. Besiktas, for their part, had already tabled an offer worth roughly €10 million net per season plus €2 million in bonuses on a 1+1-year deal, but that proposal has reportedly been shelved as talks with Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia continue to advance.
Since leaving Europe, both stars have signed career-defining contracts with new clubs, creating an astonishing earnings gap that has sparked fresh debate about how each legend has approached the final stage of his career. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have spent nearly two decades competing for soccer’s biggest prizes, and that rivalry now extends to their financial success as well. Since leaving Europe, both stars have signed career-defining contracts with new clubs, creating an astonishing earnings gap that has sparked fresh debate about how each legend has approached the final stage of his career. The numbers appear overwhelming at first glance, but they only tell part of the story. While Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia has generated unprecedented soccer wages, Messi’s agreement in the United States follows a very different model that could reshape his wealth for years after retirement. Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival at Al-Nassr at the beginning of 2023 transformed far more than one club. His transfer became the catalyst for Saudi Arabia’s soccer project, attracting global attention and encouraging several elite players to join the Saudi Pro League. Since then, stars including Karim Benzema, Neymar, N’Golo Kante, and Sadio Mane have followed similar paths, strengthening the league’s international profile. The Portuguese veteran has frequently argued that the Saudi Pro League is growing rapidly and has the potential to compete with many of the world’s strongest competitions. His influence has also extended beyond the pitch through television audiences, sponsorship opportunities and worldwide commercial interest. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr lifts the Saudi Pro League Trophy The earnings gap finally becomes clear Reports indicate Cristiano Ronaldo has earned approximately $675 million to $730 million from Al-Nassr since 2023, while Lionel Messi has accumulated an estimated $210 million to $240 million from Inter Miami during the same period. That creates a difference of roughly $435 million in direct club earnings between soccer’s two greatest modern icons. According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Ronaldo’s income has been built through a combination of guaranteed salary and performance bonuses. The reported figures include approximately $695 million in base salary, plus additional rewards for goals, assists, Golden Boot victories and winning the Saudi Pro League title. Overall, his estimated total reaches about $730 million during his first three and a half seasons in Saudi Arabia. The catch behind the numbers The enormous difference comes with an important detail. Ronaldo’s advantage exists primarily because his contract focuses on immediate guaranteed salary, while Messi’s agreement includes substantial long-term commercial partnerships and future business opportunities rather than matching Saudi Arabia’s record-breaking wages. Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF lifts the Champion’s trophy after winning the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Final Inter Miami and Major League Soccer designed a package unlike any previous soccer contract. Instead of competing solely with annual salary, the agreement includes revenue-sharing arrangements with Apple through MLS Season Pass subscriptions, merchandise partnerships with Adidas and Fanatics, plus an option to acquire an ownership stake in Inter Miami after retirement. Those benefits are difficult to calculate today because their value could continue increasing for many years. Messi chose different business strategy When Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami, many expected him to receive one of soccer’s richest contracts. Instead, the Argentine accepted a base salary of approximately $25 million, with total guaranteed compensation rising above $28 million, making him the highest-paid player in MLS history. However, the real value of his agreement lies elsewhere. According to financial reports, Messi receives a share of revenue generated by new Apple TV MLS Season Pass subscriptions, while also benefiting
While his arrival transformed the landscape of the Saudi Pro League and elevated the profile of his club around the world, it has also helped him achieve another remarkable financial milestone that further cements his status as one of soccer's greatest icons. Cristiano Ronaldo continues to reshape modern soccer, both on and off the pitch, with his move to Saudi Arabia proving to be one of the most influential transfers in the sport’s history. While his arrival transformed the landscape of the Saudi Pro League and elevated the profile of his club around the world, it has also helped him achieve another remarkable financial milestone that further cements his status as one of soccer’s greatest icons. Since making the switch in late 2022, Ronaldo has become the face of Saudi soccer, helping the club attract worldwide attention while inspiring a wave of elite talent to follow. His impact stretches far beyond goals and trophies, influencing broadcasting, sponsorship, attendance and global interest in the competition. When Cristiano Ronaldo signed for Al-Nassr, many viewed the transfer as the final chapter of an extraordinary playing career. Instead, it became the beginning of an entirely new era for soccer in Saudi Arabia. His arrival immediately accelerated the country’s Vision 2030 sporting ambitions, turning the Saudi Pro League from a largely regional competition into one followed by supporters across the globe. The Portuguese superstar quickly became the league’s biggest attraction, encouraging several world-class players to make similar moves. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr lifts the Saudi Pro League Trophy Among the stars who followed Ronaldo into Saudi Arabia were Karim Benzema, Neymar, N’Golo Kante and Sadio Mane, further strengthening the league’s reputation. Their arrivals helped validate the ambitious project that Ronaldo himself has often spoken about, with the veteran forward previously expressing his belief that the competition could eventually become one of the world’s strongest. New earnings record emerges Beyond his influence on soccer itself, Ronaldo has now reportedly become the highest-paid player in history through his Al-Nassr contract, setting a new benchmark for player earnings. According to multiple reports, the Portuguese legend has earned approximately $730 million in wages and performance bonuses during his first three and a half years with Al-Nassr. The figure comes from a combination of guaranteed salary, goal bonuses, assist incentives, and rewards linked to individual and team success. The reported breakdown includes: Income SourceReported EarningsBase Salary$695 millionGoal Bonuses$13 millionAssist Bonuses$1.2 millionSaudi Pro League Golden Boot Bonuses (2)$10 millionSaudi Pro League Title Bonus$10 millionTotal Reported Earnings$729.2 million (≈ $730 million) Together, those incentives have created what many describe as the most lucrative contract ever awarded to a soccer player. Extraordinary contract keeps growing The financial package became even more valuable after Ronaldo signed a two-year contract extension in June 2025, keeping him at Al-Nassr until 2027. Reports indicate the agreement is worth well over $235 million per season, while also including commercial rights, signing bonuses, luxury travel arrangements and extensive support staff. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr celebrates with the Saudi Pro League Trophy. Several outlets have also reported that the deal includes a 15% ownership stake in Al-Nassr, although details surrounding that aspect have varied between sources. Those extraordinary terms underline how valuable Ronaldo has become to both the club and Saudi soccer as a whole.
While the Portuguese superstar remains focused on strengthening the squad after leading the club to the Saudi Pro League title, attention has now shifted toward a proposal that could influence the direction of Al-Nassr's sporting future. Cristiano Ronaldo is pushing for significant changes behind the scenes at Al-Nassr as the club prepares for another important transfer window, with fresh reports suggesting an ambitious strategy is beginning to take shape. While the Portuguese superstar remains focused on strengthening the squad after leading the club to the Saudi Pro League title, attention has now shifted toward a proposal that could influence the direction of Al-Nassr’s sporting future. The latest developments come as Al-Nassr continues planning for the new season following its championship-winning campaign. With Ronaldo determined to keep the club competing at the highest level, the focus is no longer limited to new signings, as discussions are also taking place over how the football operation should be managed moving forward. According to 365Scores Arabic, Ronaldo has asked for Al-Nassr’s management to be granted full authority over transfer business without outside interference. The idea is to create an independent sporting project where recruitment decisions are handled exclusively by the football department. The reported proposal reflects Ronaldo’s desire to see a long-term structure capable of competing consistently for domestic and continental trophies. After spending several years in Saudi Arabia, the veteran forward appears eager to help shape a more stable football environment around the first team. Bruno Fernandes remains a priority target The same reports indicate that Al-Nassr is considering one final approach for Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes. Before making any formal move, the club is expected to establish the Portugal international’s financial expectations. The plan would represent Ronaldo’s final attempt to convince his longtime Portugal teammate to join him in Riyadh. Fernandes has repeatedly been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, but convincing him to leave European football has proven difficult. Should discussions progress, Al-Nassr would need to assemble a package capable of matching Fernandes’ sporting and financial ambitions. Ronaldo’s influence could once again become a major factor, given the successful partnership the pair have shared with Portugal over recent years. Financial approval clears an important obstacle Meanwhile, Al-Riyadiyah reports that Al-Nassr has received the financial efficiency certificate required to register new players during the current summer transfer window. This represents a significant administrative step as the club prepares to strengthen its squad. Although some restrictions imposed by the Saudi Pro League’s Financial Control Committee remain temporarily in place until final approval is completed, the club is reportedly expecting those limitations to be lifted shortly. Once that happens, Al-Nassr will be free to complete transfer registrations and contract renewals. The certificate also allows the club to move ahead with negotiations already underway, provided the Financial Control Committee gives its final authorization. Financial stability supports transfer ambitions Earlier reports cited by Al-Riyadiyah stated that Al-Nassr has no overdue financial obligations to either the Saudi Ministry of Sports or the Saudi Pro League. The club has also reportedly received all funding available through the government’s club support strategy. In addition, Al-Nassr has been informed about the financial resources available through the league’s player attraction program for the upcoming campaign. Those resources could play an important role as the club attempts to compete for elite international talent. The report adds that how those funds are ultimately used remains a decision for the club’s leadership. They are expected to form part of a broader financial plan designe
With Duran heading back to European soccer, speculation has intensified over who could partner Ronaldo next as the club prepares for the new campaign. Cristiano Ronaldo is still waiting to see who will arrive to strengthen Al-Nassr after Jhon Duran completed a season-long loan move to Benfica, but the Saudi club faces an obstacle that has slowed its plans. With Duran heading back to European soccer, speculation has intensified over who could partner Ronaldo next as the club prepares for the new campaign. The Colombia national team striker leaves after a turbulent spell in Saudi Arabia that included multiple loan moves before his latest switch to Portugal. While Al-Nassr wants to reshape its squad under Ange Postecoglou, developments behind the scenes have complicated the club’s search for reinforcements. Benfica officially signed the 22-year-old on a season-long loan, with the agreement including a reported $34 million purchase option if certain conditions are met. The move gives Duran another opportunity to establish himself in European soccer after brief spells with Fenerbahçe and Zenit St. Petersburg. Duran expressed his excitement during his presentation in Lisbon. “It is a dream to be here. Benfica is the biggest club in Portugal. I want to help the team, score goals, win titles and repay the confidence the club has shown in me,” he said. 🎙️ As primeiras palavras de Jhon Durán de vermelho e branco! pic.twitter.com/wwriuy9oiq— SL Benfica (@SLBenfica) July 20, 2026 The transfer marks the seventh club of the player’s professional career, a remarkable journey for a player who is still only 22. Since making his senior debut with Envigado in 2019, he has represented clubs in Colombia, the United States, England, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Russia and now Portugal. The issue delaying Al-Nassr’s transfer plans As Duran departs, Al-Nassr has yet to announce a direct replacement, and reports suggest there is a significant reason behind the inactivity. According to multiple reports, including Saudi outlet Al-Riyadiyah, Al-Nassr is having a serious cash flow problem since club income is less than outstanding obligations. The situation has affected transfer planning, delayed recruitment, and reportedly forced the club to slow negotiations despite identifying several transfer targets. The financial situation has also reportedly contributed to restrictions on transfer spending, leaving the club unable to complete deals until budgets receive executive approval. Even relatively modest transfers have reportedly stalled during the current window. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr lifts the Saudi Pro League Trophy Ronaldo waits for attacking reinforcements With Duran now in Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the focal point of Al-Nassr’s attack heading into the 2026-27 season. The Portuguese captain is expected to lead the frontline once again while the club continues searching for additional attacking quality. Several high-profile names have been linked with Al-Nassr over recent months. Reports have mentioned Premier League stars, such as Mohamed Salah, Bruno Fernandes, and Gabriel Martinelli, although none of those moves has progressed into a completed transfer. Some reports also suggest the club could prioritize signing another winger rather than replacing Duran with a traditional center-forward. That strategy would still leave Ronaldo as the primary goalscoring reference in the squad.
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