The Saudi government is planning an ambitious plan for two of soccer’s biggest and most iconic stars.
The Mail reports that the Saudi authorities plan to attract both Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to the Saudi Pro-League.
Ronaldo is currently a free agent after both he and United mutually agreed to the termination of his contract.
This is after the 37-year-old did an explosive interview with Piers Morgan in which he made damning allegations against Erik ten Hag and the club.
Ronaldo, according to The Mail, has suitors interested in his services, but any determination of his future is likely to only come after Portugal’s World Cup run ends.
Several members of the European elite have come out to reject the advances of the former United striker.
Paris St Germain and Bayern Munich have distanced themselves from signing Ronaldo. Recently, a report reaffirmed Real Madrid’s lack of interest in its all-time goalscorer with a six-month contract.
As for Ronaldo’s longtime enemy Messi, Saudi interest in him is fueled by the uncertainty surrounding his contract status with PSG.
Messi’s tenure with PSG expires at the end of next summer. While the French champions are interested in extending his contract, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner is said to be considering all options for him.
The Mail indicates about the Saudi government’s interest in Messi: “The Argentine is an ambassador for the Saudi Arabian tourism board, so the links surrounding a move are not surprising.”
Saudi Arabia’s Sports Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, was questioned about Messi’s situation and his dealings with the country. He said: “That has benefited a lot in terms of tourism for the kingdom.”
He added: “If you can, I would love to see you both. [Messi and Ronaldo] play in the Saudi league.
