Could Cristiano Ronaldo Retire After Potential New Contract Through 2027?

A retirement plan for Cristiano Ronaldo has been teased as Saudi Pro League officials reportedly line up 50 big-name players to join CR7 in the Middle East before the day comes for him to hang up his boots. More high-profile additions, such as Mohamed Salah and Bruno Fernandes, will help the division to retain interest heading towards the 2034 World Cup.

According to talkSPORT, "dealmakers are targeting 50 peak-age foreign signings this summer." It is expected that efforts to complete a flurry of notable deals will be stepped up once the 2026 World Cup has been completed.

While focusing on the acquisition of players that can spend several years in the Saudi Pro League, "a handful of older stars are also on the shortlist". Liverpool superstar Salah, Manchester United captain Fernandes, Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior and Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski are all being targeted.

It is claimed that Saudi officials have already made an "exploratory enquiry for Salah" following his outburst against Liverpool in December. Michael Emenalo, who is now sporting director of the top tier in Saudi Arabia, boasts a "long-standing relationship with Salah and will be one of the driving forces on the timing behind any formal move". Al-Ittihad saw a £150 million ($202m) bid for Salah rejected in 2023, but his situation has now changed and the reigning Premier League champions may soon be open to offers.

Al-Ittihad, who could lose Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante at the end of the season, are "one of three clubs considering a move for Manchester United captain Fernandes". The Portugal international has a "€60m release clause valid for non-Premier League clubs" in his deal at Old Trafford and has hinted at being ready for a new