Cristiano Ronaldo tells Al-Nassr to sign ANOTHER Chelsea star after agreeing deal for Joao Felix

Cristiano Ronaldo is once again flexing his influence at Al-Nassr, as reports from sources close to the club reveal that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has personally urged the board to pursue a sensational move for another Chelsea star — Raheem Sterling — following the club’s agreement to sign João Félix in a high-profile deal from Atlético Madrid.

Ronaldo, who joined the Saudi Pro League side in December 2022, has become far more than just a marquee player. His presence has accelerated the transformation of the league and elevated the profile of Saudi football globally. Now, as Al-Nassr double down on their bid to dominate the Saudi and Asian footballing landscapes, Ronaldo is playing a central role in shaping their recruitment strategy.

This exclusive report unpacks how the João Félix deal was struck, Ronaldo’s increasing off-field influence, why Raheem Sterling has been identified as the next target, and how the Saudi club’s lavish vision is reshaping the global transfer market.

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João Félix to Al-Nassr: The Turning Point

Al-Nassr’s breakthrough in their pursuit of João Félix marks a bold chapter for Saudi football. The 25-year-old Portuguese international, once the fourth-most expensive footballer in history when he joined Atlético Madrid for €126 million in 2019, has agreed to join Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in a deal reportedly worth around €40 million — a sum dwarfed by the lucrative wages he is set to earn in Riyadh.

Sources from inside Al-Nassr told regional outlet Arriyadiyah that Ronaldo played a decisive role in bringing Félix to the club. The two share a long-standing connection, having represented Portugal at the international level. With Félix’s time at Atlético riddled with inconsistency and strained relations with manager Diego Simeone, the offer from Al-Nassr — both financially lucrative and strategically appealing — proved irresistible.

“Cristiano spoke directly with João,” one source said. “He told him that this project was special, that he could rebuild his career in a league where the pressure is different, but the stakes are growing higher every season.”

Félix is expected to link up with Al-Nassr during their mid-season camp, and the club’s coaching staff believe his creativity will help unlock more goals from both Ronaldo and Brazilian forward Anderson Talisca.

But it doesn’t stop there. Now, with the Félix deal all but confirmed, Ronaldo has turned his attention to another familiar face from the Premier League: Raheem Sterling.

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Raheem Sterling: The Next Piece in Al-Nassr’s Jigsaw?

Cristiano Ronaldo has reportedly told Al-Nassr executives that Raheem Sterling could be the “missing ingredient” in their push for AFC Champions League glory and domestic dominance. The English forward, who has struggled for consistency at Chelsea since arriving from Manchester City in 2022, is seen by Ronaldo as an explosive winger who can bring direct pace, flair, and valuable European experience.

While Sterling has never played alongside Ronaldo at club level, the Portuguese legend is said to admire the former England international’s work ethic, versatility, and leadership qualities. According to Saudi journalist Bader Al-Zahrani, Ronaldo personally requested a meeting with Al-Nassr’s technical director to push the club toward making a formal inquiry.

Sterling, now 30, has two years left on his Chelsea contract, and his future at Stamford Bridge is under growing uncertainty. With Chelsea undergoing a major overhaul under new head coach Enzo Maresca, the Blues are open to offers for several senior players — especially those with high wages who may not fit into the club’s long-term project.

Chelsea are reportedly listening to offers in the region of £25 million for Sterling, though that fee could rise if multiple clubs enter the race.

Saudi clubs have already poached a number of Premier League talents over the last 18 months, with the likes of N’Golo Kanté, Kalidou Koulibaly, Riyad Mahrez, and Jordan Henderson all making the switch. Al-Nassr believe Sterling would be another massive coup — not only for their squad but for the league’s global image.

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Ronaldo’s Growing Influence at Al-Nassr

When Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr in late 2022, skeptics dismissed the move as the final chapter in an illustrious career. But over two years later, the Portuguese superstar has not only continued to perform on the pitch — scoring 61 goals in 70 appearances — but has also embedded himself deeply in the club’s fabric.

Club insiders describe him as a “de facto sporting advisor” whose opinion is considered in almost all major decisions — from managerial appointments to tactical shifts and transfer targets.

“Cristiano is not just a player here,” said one club official. “He’s a leader in every sense — professional, inspirational, and strategic. When he recommends a player, people listen.”

Ronaldo is believed to have had a say in several key moves — including the signings of Marcelo Brozović, Aymeric Laporte, and now João Félix. His suggestion to move for Sterling is being treated with urgency by Al-Nassr’s hierarchy.

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What Sterling Brings to the Table

Should the Sterling deal materialize, Al-Nassr would be acquiring one of the Premier League’s most decorated wingers. Over the course of his career, Sterling has amassed:

• Premier League titles: 4 (with Manchester City)
• FA Cup: 1
• League Cup: 5
• Over 100 Premier League goals
• More than 80 England caps

Though his spell at Chelsea has been turbulent — partly due to managerial instability and squad overhaul — few doubt his raw ability. At his best, Sterling is a devastating wide attacker, capable of beating defenders with pace and finishing with clinical precision.

Al-Nassr believe pairing him with Ronaldo and Félix could form the most dynamic attacking trident in the Saudi Pro League — one that would rival any in Asia.

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Saudi Pro League’s Vision: A New Global Force

The chase for Sterling — spearheaded by Ronaldo — is emblematic of the Saudi Pro League’s grander vision: to become a top-five league globally within the next decade.

Backed by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), several top-tier clubs like Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ittihad have spent hundreds of millions luring talent from Europe. Their strategy is twofold: attract global stars while investing in local infrastructure and youth development.

In a recent interview, SPL President Carlo Nohra stated: “We want the world to look at Saudi Arabia not as a retirement home for players, but as a legitimate destination for competitive football.”

Ronaldo echoed that sentiment last year, claiming the Saudi league “could become better than Ligue 1 or even Serie A” if current trends continue.

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Chelsea’s Perspective: Financial and Tactical Realignment

For Chelsea, selling Sterling could be seen as both a financial and tactical maneuver. The club has already offloaded several high-wage earners over the last 18 months and is focused on building a younger, more cohesive side under Maresca.

With the arrival of forwards like Kendry Páez, Noni Madueke, and the return of Christopher Nkunku, Sterling’s long-term role in the squad is unclear. If Al-Nassr table a firm offer, Chelsea may be inclined to accept and reinvest the funds.

One Premier League scout noted: “Sterling still has a lot to give, but he may need a fresh start. The Saudi project offers him a clean slate, guaranteed minutes, and superstar status.”

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What Happens Next?

Al-Nassr have reportedly opened informal discussions with Sterling’s camp, though no official bid has yet been lodged. Should Chelsea greenlight the move, negotiations could move rapidly — particularly with Ronaldo pushing from within.

As for Sterling, the idea of linking up with João Félix and Cristiano Ronaldo in one of the fastest-growing leagues in the world is believed to be “intriguing.” A source close to the player hinted: “Raheem is open-minded. He’s not chasing money — but he wants a place where he’s valued and can thrive. Saudi Arabia is no longer a backwater.”

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Final Thoughts: Ronaldo the Architect

Cristiano Ronaldo’s enduring influence on world football is once again on display. From Madrid to Manchester, to now Riyadh, the Portuguese legend is shaping the destiny of clubs and players alike.

With João Félix already on his way and Raheem Sterling potentially the next domino to fall, Al-Nassr’s ambition — under Ronaldo’s quiet but decisive leadership — is unmistakable.

As the Saudi Pro League continues its aggressive ascent, the world watches with curiosity. One thing is certain: with Ronaldo at the center of it all, nothing is impossible.