Cristiano Ronaldo sent shockwaves through the footballing world when he posted a cryptic message on Instagram following Al-Nassr's final match of the Saudi Pro League season - but he could be staying after all.
The 40-year-old wrote "This chapter is over" alongside a picture of himself in an Al-Nassr shirt after Monday night's 3-2 defeat to Al-Fateh.
The Portuguese star added: "The story? Still being written. Grateful to all."
The social media post immediately sparked widespread speculation about his departure from Saudi Arabia, with his current contract set to expire on 30th June.
Reuters/Instagram | Cristiano Ronaldo had posted on Instagram, hinting that he could be leaving Al-Nassr
Reports from French outlet Foot Mercato now claim Al-Nassr have reached a "full agreement" with Ronaldo to extend his contract despite his apparent exit hints.
The report suggests a deal has already been signed, with the former Real Madrid star expected to remain with the Saudi club until 2027.
This would represent a dramatic U-turn from the Portugal international, who had been linked with various clubs including his former side Sporting, MLS teams, and Brazilian clubs following his cryptic social media message.
Saudi sources reportedly confirm he has already extended his contract, though the exact length has not been officially revealed.
Al-Nassr sporting director Fernando Hierro expressed confidence about retaining Ronaldo during a press conference on Thursday.
"I have to be positive. I don't think Ronaldo will leave Al-Nassr," Hierro said.
He outlined the club's determination to secure a renewal: "We are working hard on all aspects.
Ronaldo's contract with Al-Nassr runs until the end of June 30. We will work to renew his contract so he can continue with us."
REUTERS | Cristiano Ronaldo is out of contract with Al Nassr at the end of the seasonHierro acknowledged the global interest in the Portuguese superstar, stating: "There are many clubs interested in signing him.
"He is a huge phenomenon in the history of football and has helped the league grow."
Since moving to Saudi Arabia in 2023, Ronaldo has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances for Al-Nassr.
The club won the Arab Champions Cup in 2023 but has yet to secure the Saudi Pro League title or King's Cup during his tenure.
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Cristiano Ronaldo has no plans to retireAl-Nassr finished third in the Saudi Pro League this season and failed to qualify for the AFC Champions League, despite Ronaldo ending as the division's top scorer for the second consecutive campaign.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino had previously suggested Ronaldo could feature in this summer's Club World Cup, stating there were "discussions with some clubs" about signing him for the competition.
However, with Al-Nassr not involved in the tournament and reports suggesting Ronaldo will remain in Saudi Arabia, he appears set to miss FIFA's new club showpiece competition.