Could Cristiano Ronaldo Move to Newcastle United?
The Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF), the owners of Newcastle United, has taken control of Saudi Arabia’s four biggest clubs, including Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr. With this recent acquisition, the question has emerged: Could Cristiano Ronaldo move to Newcastle?
The Acquisition
Besides Al-Nassr, the PIF now also controls current champions of the Saudi Pro League Al-Ittihad, who will sign Karim Benzema this summer, reigning champions Al-Hilal, who is trying to sign Lionel Messi, and Al-Ahli.
The PIF purchased a 75% stake in these four clubs, with the remaining 25% being transferred to non-profit foundations from the Saudi Ministry of Sport. The clubs were previously “owned but not controlled” by the Ministry of Sport.
Ronaldo Past Rumors
Ronaldo has been rumored to moves to Newcastle in the past. There were reports in January that claimed there was a clause in Ronaldo’s contract which would allow him to move to Newcastle on loan if the club were to qualify for the Champions League.
This rumor was quickly debunked by ESPN soccer analyst Mark Ogden who called the rumor fake. Ogden claimed that Ronaldo would see out his two-and-a-half-year contract with Al-Nassr and would not be returning to the Premier League.
Could It Happen Now?
PIF’s recent acquisition could change everything. Newcastle is by far PIF’s crown jewel of soccer teams. They have pumped an insane amount of money into the club which has led to quick success. Now, Newcastle will be playing in the Champions League and are going to need elite players to compete.
Ronaldo, although he is 38, is still an elite player. Not only that, he brings with him a level of attention and marketability that no other player does. Other elite players have also said that they want to play with him.
Signing Ronaldo would bring Newcastle attention, other elite players and a world-class player who has experience winning the Champions League.
Newcastle could also sign him on loan, which would allow him to return to Al-Nassr at the conclusion of the season. Newcastle would benefit, and Al-Nassr would still get him back for another year.
This is all purely speculation at this point. However, PIF purchased these clubs just weeks after Newcastle qualified for the Champions League. The timing of the purchase seems too perfect for this to be a mere coincidence.
The door is more open than ever now for a Champions League return for Ronaldo. Keep an eye out these next few weeks, because PIF and Newcastle could be making some serious moves.
SUBSCRIBE to the Vendetta YouTube Channel!
CLICK HERE for more soccer content!
