Cristiano Ronaldo could hand Manchester United a parting gift after joining Al Nassr

Cristiano Ronaldo could hand Manchester United a surprise parting gift after making a controversial move to Saudi Arabia side Al Nassr.

Ronaldo has signed a two-and-a-half year contract which will see him earn a whopping $200 million per season and comes after his United contract was terminated by mutual consent.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner wanted to remain in European football but no concrete club expressed an interest and he will now embark on a new challenge in the Middle East.

Ronaldo will unsurprisingly wear the No.7 shirt and could make his debut on Thursday.

There have been reports that Al Nassr are on the hunt for a creative winger in order to give him the quality service he desires but it's said that Ronaldo's switch could help pave the way for one of his new teammates joining United.

Cameroon captain Vincent Aboubakar, who scored twice in the 2022 World Cup, plays for Al Nassr and is believed to be a target of United's.

Image: Alamy

The Daily Mail say that United are keen on bringing in a new striker to replace Ronaldo but are restricted to signing players on loan in January.

Aboubakar, along with Barcelona's Memphis Depay, are two options for a temporary switch. The former Porto and Besiktas man could be made available now that Ronaldo has signed for Al Nassr.

Image: Alamy

Ronaldo has received plenty of criticism for moving to Al Nassr, where his contract includes a clause whereby he will act as an ambassador for their 2030 World Cup bid.

The flak is largely due to Ronaldo contradicting previous statements where he said he would "finish [his career] with dignity".

"I am fortunate that I have won everything I set out to win in European football," Ronaldo said after his signing with Al Nassr was confirmed.

"I feel now that this is the right moment to share my experience in Asia.

"Al-Nassr's vision is very inspiring and impressive. I look forward to a different league experience in a different country. I am excited to join my team-mates as soon as possible."

Topics: Cristiano Ronaldo, Manchester United, Saudi Arabia, Al Nassr

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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