Cristiano Ronaldo might be on the move again. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner has hinted that his time at Al-Nassr is up, posting a cryptic message on Twitter.
And with FIFA president Gianni Infantino revealing plans for Ronaldo to feature at this summer’s Club World Cup in the USA, the question is: who signs him next?
From surprise shouts in Brazil to an English Premier League return, here are five clubs who could take a short-term gamble on football’s most famous No.7.
This chapter is over.
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) May 26, 2025
The story? Still being written.
Grateful to all. pic.twitter.com/Vuvl5siEB3
1. Chelsea
Let’s start with the wildest option. Todd Boehly has always had an eye for a headline, and Ronaldo to Chelsea has been floated since 2023.
Now, with Enzo Maresca arriving and Chelsea in the Club World Cup, could a short-term deal finally materialise? With only Nicolas Jackson up top and question marks over Nkunku’s fitness, CR7 could offer that short-term firepower – and global attention – the Blues love.
2. Botafogo
A Brazilian fairytale? Botafogo are one of four Brazilian sides set for the Club World Cup and are reportedly very interested.
Manager Renato Paiva said it best: “You can’t say no to a star like that.”
It would be a shock to see Ronaldo in the Brasileirão, but the stage, the team, and the tournament make it one of the more romantic fits – especially with Botafogo grouped against PSG and Atletico Madrid.
3. Inter Miami
Messi x Ronaldo. Finally… together?
With Inter Miami opening the Club World Cup against Egyptian side Al-Ahly, ticket sales have already been sluggish. So who better to boost interest than Messi’s greatest rival?
There’s history, there’s hype, and there’s David Beckham, a man who’s spoken about signing Ronaldo before. Football’s most iconic duo…in pink?
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4. Al-Hilal
Ronaldo’s Saudi stint might be done, but what if he just changes shirts?
With Neymar off the wage bill and Al-Hilal needing firepower for the Club World Cup, a short-term swap across Riyadh could work. CR7 wouldn’t even have to unpack.
With Ruben Neves and Joao Cancelo already there, and the club also looking to bring in Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes, there could be a Portuguese reunion on the cards.
Luckily for the definitely-not-dishonest Saudi Pro League, Al-Nassr and Al Hilal are owned by the same investment fund…
5. Monterrey
Mexico might sound a strange destination, but trust us, it makes sense.
Monterrey are one of Mexico’s biggest clubs and qualified directly for the Club World Cup. They’re also home to Sergio Ramos, a familiar face from Ronaldo’s Real Madrid days.
The idea of CR7 leading the line for a North American giant in a US-based tournament ticks every box, from commercial appeal to pure footballing fantasy.
Final Word
The Club World Cup kicks off on 15 June, and the 10-day transfer window opens 1 June.
With no trophies in two seasons and a clear desire to compete again at the highest level, don’t bet against Ronaldo pulling off one final twist in the story.
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