Latest developments
- Cristiano Ronaldo set for shock move to Al-Hilal from Al-Nassr
- Al-Hilal have lost patience with Neymar and want CR7 to replace him.
- Injury-prone Brazilian to be overlooked for 40-year-old Ronaldo.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2/5): Questionable source leaves some doubt
In a move that would stun the Saudi Pro League, Al-Hilal are reportedly attempting to sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Al-Nassr as a replacement for injury-prone Neymar, according to Spanish website, Sport.
The story was broken by Saudi daily show Action Ma3 Waleed, who claim fellow Riyadh-based Al-Hilal have grown frustrated with their star Brazilian, who, after a year out with a knee injury, is set for another period on the sidelines after suffering a hamstring problem.
Since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain for £75 million, Neymar has made just seven appearances in Saudi Arabia.
Value (2/5): CR7 never comes cheap, even in his forties
No potential transfer fee has been mooted, but given the very deep pockets that the major Saudi clubs possess, there is almost no ceiling as to what Al-Hilal could pay.
Valued at €15 million, Al-Nassr's asking price will likely be several times that, as they would be looking to cash in on Ronaldo the marketable icon, rather than Ronaldo the 40-something footballer.
Suitability (2.5/5): The CR7 factor suits, but is a centre-forward needed?
If Al-Hilal want nothing more than to increase their social media following and sell more replica shirts, then there is arguably no one more suitable than Ronaldo.
However, as the Portuguese star's advancing years have forced him to turn into a less-mobile, less-athletic, old-fashioned centre forward, that makes him less suitable to the Al-Hilal cause.
His aerial presence and finishing ability are still at a decent level for the SPL, and six goals in eight matches this season proves that. But, in Aleksandar Mitrovic and his 10 goals in nine, Al-Hilal already have a centre-forward still at the peak of his powers.
Upgrade? (2/5): A blend of skills on offer to aid Red Devils’ backline
Even in the twilight of his career, one thing that has stayed a constant throughout Ronaldo's career is his fitness. Rarely spending significant spells on the sidelines, Ronaldo would at least be available to Jorge Jesus more often than Neymar.
But, as outlined, Al-Hilal is one of the few teams in Saudi Arabia where Ronaldo would not be an upgrade in terms of the central striker. If the Blue Waves were to fork out for him, though, Mitrovic's days at the club may be numbered.
Logic (1.5/5): Little for Ronaldo to gain
Still going strong on the yellow side of Riyadh, where he is undoubtedly the main man both on and off the pitch, the move to Saudi Arabia has worked out well for Ronaldo.
Therefore, a move to another team across the city, where he will be the biggest draw off the field but not necessarily on it, offers little for CR7 to gain, other than a handful of burnt bridges with everyone who made his lucrative Al-Nassr deal a reality.
Whisper+ final verdict – 10 / 25
Al-Hilal may have the funds to rip up Neymar's contract and go superstar shopping once again, and it would come as no surprise if they were to make Al-Nassr a sizeable offer.
Yet, are they likely to better the wage deal that Ronaldo is currently on. If not, what else would attract Cr7 to make the switch?
