Cristiano Ronaldo ‘to block’ transfers affecting Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante and Youssef En-Nesyri | OneFootball

Cristiano Ronaldo’s discontent in the Saudi Pro League is said to be shaping late window business, with interventions linked to moves involving Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Youssef En-Nesyri.

A Bola claims the Al-Nassr captain is unhappy with how the Public Investment Fund manages his club compared with rivals. It is also being suggested he could refuse to play, while rotation had been mooted for Monday’s derby with Al-Riyadh.

Ronaldo moved to Riyadh in 2023 after leaving Manchester United, signing the most lucrative deal in world football. He has extended his contract to summer 2027, when he would be 42, and could yet play beyond that.

Benzema’s dispute at Al-Ittihad has sparked exit talk, with Al-Hilal interest floated. Any switch is said to be blocked by Ronaldo to protect fair competition, despite Al-Nassr adding Sadio Mane, Joao Felix and Kingsley Coman.

Sports Digitale reports that this stance has held up related deals, with Kante yet to sign for Fenerbahce and En-Nesyri unable to join Al-Ittihad. Agreements are said to be lodged with the league, with signatures awaiting approval.

Figures in the league are keen to keep Ronaldo settled, and compromises could follow. Benzema may still move, which might unlock Kante and En-Nesyri’s transfers. Ronaldo is chasing major honours in 2026, 1,000 career goals, and is expected to captain Portugal at this summer’s World Cup.

Source: Goal.com