Emmanuel Ochayi
Former Manchester United goalkeeper, David de Gea, is on the cusp of reuniting with his former teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, this time at Saudi Arabian outfit Al Nassr.
Nevertheless, the potential offer for De Gea’s services pales in comparison to the astronomical figures commanded by Ronaldo in the ranks of Riyadh-based Al Nassr.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelDe Gea’s potential transition to Al Nassr follows Manchester United’s decision to part ways with the goalkeeper, ending his association with the club after the 2022-23 season, opting to secure Andre Onana from Inter Milan as their preferred custodian.
Amidst De Gea’s contemplation over his next career step, Real Madrid’s goalkeeper hunt following Thibaut Courtois’ injury did not encompass him. Instead, the Spanish giants turned to other alternatives, ultimately securing Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea on a season-long loan.
Riding high on their recent triumph in the Arab Club Champions Cup, Al Nassr has been proactive in the transfer market, eyeing De Gea as a valuable addition to their roster.
The timeline for De Gea’s decision-making process extends until September 20, a luxury granted by the extended transfer window in Saudi Arabia, which outlasts its European counterparts.
The divergence in salaries between De Gea and Ronaldo is stark. While reports suggest Al Nassr’s offer to De Gea stands at £250,000 per week, a report from The Sun unveils Ronaldo’s awe-inspiring earnings of £170 million annually, translating to slightly over £3.1 million every week.
Such figures position Ronaldo’s wage as one of the most substantial in football history. The upcoming prospect of Neymar’s potential move to Al Hilal with a weekly wage of £2.5 million further amplifies this wage distinction. The intrigue surrounding De Gea’s destination extends beyond Al Nassr’s realm.
Bayern Munich has emerged as a viable contender, seeking a goalkeeper to address the void left by Yann Sommer’s transfer to Inter Milan and an injury to Manuel Neuer. Choosing Bayern would allow De Gea to continue his European journey.
However, Al Nassr holds a persuasive allure, positioning him as their primary goalkeeper for the upcoming season. The prospect of joining forces with former Manchester United comrade Alex Telles adds a layer of familiarity to the mix.
Steered by Luis Castro, Al Nassr’s ambitious acquisitions, including Sadio Mane and Marcelo Brozovic, underscore their aspiration to clinch the Saudi Pro League title.
Despite these lofty intentions, they encountered an initial setback in the 2023-24 Saudi Pro League, succumbing to a defeat against reigning champions Al Ettifaq. Absent due to an injury sustained during the Arab Club Champions Cup final, Ronaldo’s void was filled by Sadio Mane as the team’s captain.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
