Cristiano Ronaldo in AC Milan talks as Al-Nassr future decided

Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to acquire a 20 per cent stake in Al-Nassr as AC Milan owners RedBird Capital Partners explore a takeover of the Saudi Pro League club.

According to a report by FootballTransfers on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, RedBird has held at least two meetings with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) to discuss purchasing a 70 per cent stake in Al-Nassr, although negotiations remain at an early stage.

The proposed takeover follows Saudi Arabia’s plans to privatise its major football clubs, with Al-Nassr expected to follow Al-Hilal as the government gradually reduces its direct ownership of the country’s leading teams.

RedBird founder Gerry Cardinale had reportedly begun exploring the possibility of acquiring Al-Nassr last month as part of the company’s wider football investment strategy.

The American investment firm already owns AC Milan and Toulouse, while also holding a minority stake in Fenway Sports Group, which owns Liverpool.

According to FootballTransfers, the proposed deal could value RedBird’s 70 per cent stake at approximately $267 million.

The PIF is also reportedly clearing $213 million in debt accumulated by Al-Nassr to facilitate the sale, although the final financial terms have not been confirmed.

Ronaldo is expected to participate in the proposed ownership arrangement through CR7 Sports Investments.

The Portugal captain recently acquired a 25 per cent stake in Spanish second-division club UD Almeria, demonstrating his growing interest in football investments beyond his playing career.

His potential 20 per cent holding in Al-Nassr would give the club access to one of football’s most recognisable global figures while helping the proposed ownership group strengthen its international profile, particularly in the United States.

The privatisation plan forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader effort to make its football clubs more financially sustainable.

The PIF previously took control of Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, Al-Ahli and Al-Ittihad to support the development of the domestic league.

However, the strategy is now shifting towards attracting outside investors and encouraging clubs to operate with greater financial discipline while continuing to recruit high-profile players.

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