Ronaldo linked with Saudi club

DOHA, Qatar (AP):

The noise surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo shows no sign of quietening amid widespread speculation that Saudi club Al Nassr is trying to sign the five-time Ballon d'Or winner.

Portugal, who have managed to secure their place in the knockout stages of the World Cup with a game to spare, don't look like they have been affected by the focus their most celebrated player is attracting.

"He is our captain and probably the most important figure in Portuguese football. It's important to have him by our side," forward Andre Silva said at a news conference yesterday when Ronaldo was consistently referenced.

The reports linking Ronaldo with Al Nassr come after the star had his contract terminated by Manchester United following his explosive interview with Piers Morgan in which he criticised manager Erik ten Hag and the club's owners. The 37-year-old Ronaldo is now a free agent and his availability at club level has been drawing attention in Qatar and beyond.

Representatives for Ronaldo didn't comment on reports regarding his future.