'We are in contact' - Al-Nassr chief clarifies speculation over Cristiano Ronaldo's future with Saudi club hopeful of keeping 'phenomenon' and extending 'national project'

Al-Nassr sporting director Hierro has revealed he hopes Ronaldo will sign a contract extension after the five-time Ballon d'Or winner hinted he will leave the club this summer. The Portuguese legend moved to Saudi Arabia in 2023 but has won only one piece of silverware, with Stefano Pioli's side recently missing out on the Saudi top-flight title and almost failing to qualify for the AFC Champions League.

Al-Nassr won't feature in this summer's newly-expanded Club World Cup and Ronaldo has been tipped to join one of the sides competing in the tournament, which could lead to another showdown with long-time rival Lionel Messi, who will be present with Inter Miami. While Hierro admitted other clubs are interested in the former Real Madrid star, he hopes Ronaldo will extend his stay.

Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, Hierro said: "Ronaldo's contract with Al Nassr runs until June 30. We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us, and there are many clubs interested in signing him. We are negotiating with Cristiano Ronaldo to renew his contract. God willing, we will find a solution.

"Ronaldo's presence from the beginning is a national project. Cristiano has opened up soccer in this country to the world. It's phenomenal that he had the courage to come here, stay here, and open up the Saudi Arabian league to the world. It's an extraordinary milestone.

"Since his arrival, top-level players have come here. He opened all the doors. From there, the people at the top are doing an extraordinary job. They're pushing forward. We are in contact to renew his contract and hope he continues with us."

Ronaldo has been linked with all sorts of transfers since his cryptic social media post, with Al-Hilal, who will play at the Club World Cup, said to be interested. In terms of a replacement, Al-Nassr are said to be monitoring the situation of Liverpool forward Luis Diaz.