Cristiano Ronaldo, Al Nassr 'In Contact' Over New Contract Amid Rumors on Future

Al Nassr sporting director Fernando Hierro is optimistic about extending Cristiano Ronaldo's stay at the club.

Hierro said Thursday Al Nassr is "in contact" with Ronaldo's representatives and that negotiations over a new contract are ongoing:

Spanish newspaper Marca reported this month that Ronaldo could sign with a Brazilian club and compete in the Club World Cup, which kicks off June 14. Palmeiras, Flamengo, Fluminense and Botafogo have all qualified for the tournament.

Ronaldo added fuel to the fire when he wrote on his social media accounts that "this chapter is over."

The 40-year-old made 30 starts for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, scoring 25 goals and registering three assists. He tallied another eight goals in the AFC Champions League Elite, with Al Nassr reaching the semifinals.

Despite his age, Ronaldo may have one more relatively big move left in his career. It's doubtful a club from one of Europe's top five leagues will jump at the chance because his market was pretty tepid when he was a free agent in 2022.

MLS or a South American club would at least present the five-time Ballon d'Or winner with a new challenge and the opportunity to pad his bank account a little further. Going to the United States would also mean renewing his rivalry with Lionel Messi.

If nothing else, it looks like Ronaldo has no intentions of hanging up his cleats. He'll be extending his career into the 2025-26 season, whether that means staying at Al Nassr or heading elsewhere.