Al-Ittihad 'pushing' for shock Sadio Mane transfer after Karim Benzema request with Cristiano Ronaldo in danger of losing Al-Nassr strike partner

Journalist Ben Jacobs reports that 2022-23 Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad have shown strong interest in signing former Liverpool star Mane in the ongoing transfer window. Al-Ittihad have already approached Al-Nassr with an offer and the two clubs are now negotiating the terms of the deal, which could come in the form of a permanent deal or a loan.

Jacobs further claimed that Al-Ittihad decided to chase Mane after their star striker and former Real Madrid player Benzema expressed his desire to play alongside the Senegal international. He believes the winger's addition to the squad will help them challenge for the league title again in the upcoming 2024-25 season.

Mane had an impressive debut season in Saudi Arabia after arriving from Bayern Munich last summer. He appeared in 46 matches across all competitions for Al-Nassr where he scored 19 goals and provided eight assists. Mane's departure would be a big blow to his club as he had built a solid attacking partnership with Cristiano Ronaldo.

After suffering a heartbreaking loss in the Saudi Super Cup final against Al-Hilal, Ronaldo and his colleagues will be back in action on Thursday as they take on Al-Raed in their Saudi Pro League opener.