Saudi Pro League eyes Salah, Fernandes as potential new global faces amid Ronaldo exit talks

The Saudi Pro League is reportedly considering Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah as potential new ambassadors for the league, amid growing speculation over the future of Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr.

Ronaldo, widely regarded as the Saudi Pro League’s biggest global attraction, has been at the centre of discussions about a possible departure following concerns over the club’s transfer activities.

The 41-year-old joined Al-Nassr in December 2022 on a free transfer after a glittering career spanning more than two decades in Europe with four top clubs. His arrival marked a turning point for the league’s global visibility.

In 2025, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner signed a lucrative contract extension with Al-Nassr, keeping him at the club until next summer.

However, reports suggest tensions may have emerged after Ronaldo allegedly expressed dissatisfaction with the level of backing provided by the club’s owners, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), during the most recent transfer window, particularly when compared with support given to rival clubs.

Ronaldo’s contract reportedly includes a £43 million exit clause that becomes active at the end of the current season, fueling speculation that he could leave the Knights of Najd this summer. His recent absence from key fixtures has further intensified the uncertainty.

He did not feature in Al-Nassr’s 1–0 win over Al-Riyadh on Monday and was also missing from the squad in the 2–0 home victory against Al-Ittihad on Friday.

Against this backdrop, the league is said to be exploring options to maintain its international appeal should Ronaldo depart. A source within the Saudi Pro League told The i Paper, as reported by Sport Bible, that Salah and Fernandes are being viewed as ideal successors.

“Salah and Fernandes would be ideal choices, especially Salah, because he would draw in an Arab audience as a Muslim,” the source said. “Either of those newcomers, plus that young talent, would be really big for us.”

Both players are among the most influential figures in European football. Salah has been a key figure at Liverpool since joining in the summer of 2017, scoring over 250 goals in all competitions and establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most prolific forwards.

Fernandes, who arrived at Manchester United in January 2020, has captained the club and contributed more than 100 goals from midfield.

As uncertainty surrounds Ronaldo’s future, the Saudi Pro League appears keen to ensure continuity in star power and global reach, with Salah and Fernandes emerging as prime candidates to carry the league’s growing international profile forward.