Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to stay at Al Nassr has prompted the Saudi club to begin making strategic moves in the transfer market ahead of the 2025–26 season. Looking to build a competitive squad around the Portuguese icon, Al Nassr have reportedly requested an €85 million budget to target an Arsenal forward.
Jhon Duran’s lack of chemistry with Ronaldo up front led Al Nassr to send the Colombian striker on loan to Fenerbahce for the upcoming campaign. With a clear need for more attacking firepower, the club is now focusing on reinforcing the frontline to maximize Ronaldo’s output.
According to reporter Ben Jacobs, Al Nassr have set their sights on Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli. With Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta pushing for signings like Martín Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres, Martinelli could see his role reduced, which might prompt the Gunners to consider a sale in order to reinvest.
Still, a deal won’t come easy. Arsenal are not currently planning to sell Martinelli. However, should they ramp up efforts to sign Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, it could create the opportunity for either Martinelli or Leandro Trossard to depart—opening a potential door for Al Nassr.
Jacobs also reported that Al Nassr have formally submitted a request for an €85 million budget, in line with Saudi Pro League regulations. While this doesn’t necessarily mean they will bid that full amount for Martinelli, it signals the club’s intention to make a major investment in their attack.
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Al Nassr’s search for a winger
Before signing Duran, Al Nassr initially set out to land a world-class winger. During the 2025 winter transfer window, the club made a massive offer for Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma, but the Japanese international turned down the lucrative deal, opting to remain in the Premier League.
As Jacobs notes, Liverpool’s Luis Díaz—long linked with a move to Saudi Arabia—remains on Al Nassr’s shortlist to strengthen the left flank. With the Saudi transfer window opening slightly earlier this year, Al Nassr have time to weigh their options. The hunt for a left winger is far from over, and the club remains committed to finding the right piece for the 2025–26 season.
