Cristiano Ronaldo-led Al-Nassr ready to make big-money offer for Italian coach to replace Stefano Pioli: Reports

Al-Nassr, the Saudi giants, are reportedly gearing up to make a substantial offer to Italian coach Luciano Spalletti to take over as their new coach for the upcoming 2025-26 season. After a season devoid of any silverware, the club is looking to shake things up by bringing in a new coach.

According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport via Football Italia, Al-Nassr has a lucrative offer ready for Spalletti to replace the outgoing Stefano Pioli. Pioli is rumored to be on his way to Fiorentina this summer, marking a return to club football in Italy after his stint with AC Milan. Despite having the opportunity to coach the Italian national team, Pioli has opted to remain in club football.

Spalletti, who was recently sacked as the Italy boss after a 3-0 defeat to Norway, led the team to victory in his final game against Moldova. The former Napoli manager had a successful spell in club football, notably guiding Napoli to the Scudetto in the 2022-23 season.

With Cristiano Ronaldo set to stay at Al-Nassr for another season, the club is looking to entrust their future to another top Italian coach. Following Simone Inzaghi’s move from Inter Milan to Al-Hilal, Spalletti may be enticed by the riches of the Saudi Pro League this summer.

In a related development, there are reports suggesting that Al-Nassr could lose another key player this summer in the form of Colombian striker Jhon Duran. According to Arriyadiyah via Daily Mail, Duran is contemplating a return to European football due to difficulties adapting off the pitch since his move from Aston Villa in January.

Duran, who has been unable to live with his partner in Saudi Arabia due to local laws, has been a vital contributor on the field. The 21-year-old forward alleviated some of the goalscoring burden on Cristiano Ronaldo, netting 12 goals in 18 appearances for Al-Nassr. However, it remains to be seen if any European clubs are willing to match the £65 million fee paid for his services.

As Al-Nassr looks to revamp their squad and coaching staff for the upcoming season, the potential arrival of Luciano Spalletti and the possible departure of Jhon Duran could signal a new era for the Saudi giants. With Cristiano Ronaldo spearheading the team, all eyes will be on Al-Nassr as they aim to compete for silverware in the 2025-26 season.