Journalist drops major update on Cristiano Ronaldo amid shock Bayer Leverkusen transfer reports

A major update on Cristiano Ronaldo's future has emerged following reports that he could return to Europe.

Ronaldo made a shock return to Manchester United in 2021, but 15 months later he was released from his contract after falling out with manager Erik ten Hag.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner decided to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, a move that kick-started massive investment in football in the Gulf state.

Ronaldo has scored 56 goals in 60 games for the club, but with his contract set to expire next year, his future is looking uncertain.

Last week the 39-year-old was linked with a shock move to recently crowned Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen, whose manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly keen to reunite with his former Real Madrid teammate.

However, fresh reports have emerged suggesting that Ronaldo could extend his time in the Saudi Pro League.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the superstar hasn't ruled out extending his contract with Al-Nassr until 2026, by which time he would be 41 years old.

There are reportedly financial motives at play as well as sporting ones.

The club and the Saudi Pro League are reportedly keen to keep Ronaldo around as the league's TV rights renewal will come up in 2025. Having Ronaldo around for the next rights cycle is viewed as important.

Cristiano Ronaldo hasn't ruled out extending his Al-Nassr contract until 2026. Current deal expires in 2025, by which time he'll be 40.

Dealmakers keen to keep him longer. TV rights renewals come up in 2025 and having Ronaldo as part of the next cycle is seen as important.🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/P21WnQXkP5

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) May 14, 2024

Ronaldo has been in top form this season, scoring a remarkable 42 goals and providing 12 assists in 41 games in all competitions.

However, his goals were unable to prevent Al-Hilal from winning the Saudi Pro League title last weekend, condemning Al-Nassr to a second place for the second season running.

Ronaldo and his teammates suffered penalty shootout heartbreak in the quarter-finals of the AFC Champions League against Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates.

They will look to beat Al-Hilal in the final of the Kings Cup to avoid another trophyless season.