LAFC win could have huge Cristiano Ronaldo transfer implications

Cristiano Ronaldo’s future remains uncertain as his current contract with Al Nassr is set to expire next June. While it’s unclear what lies ahead for the Portuguese star, there is optimism within the Saudi club about retaining him. Sporting director Fernando Hierro hinted at this possibility on Thursday.

However, if Al Nassr and Ronaldo fail to reach an agreement to extend their relationship, several clubs are reportedly waiting in the wings for a potential “yes” from the superstar. Among them are several MLS teams, as the league has long been seen as a viable destination for uniting today’s two biggest football icons.

There’s also still a chance Ronaldo could feature in the upcoming Club World Cup with another team—something FIFA president Gianni Infantino has not ruled out. This possibility has intrigued several participating clubs, especially from the U.S. and Mexico.

Thanks to FIFA’s rules for the Club World Cup—which allow for signings without restrictions on a provisional basis—many teams are dreaming of the opportunity to add Ronaldo to their ranks, even if only temporarily.

As a result, betting odds are beginning to shift, with speculation mounting over where the former Juventus, Real Madrid, and Manchester United star might land next.

The favourites to sign Cristiano Ronaldo

Betting site Bet365 has shared its latest odds on Ronaldo’s potential next destination—either as a temporary addition for the Club World Cup or even as a permanent signing.

At the top of the list is Al Hilal, seen as the frontrunner with odds of 1.83. The club would offer Ronaldo the chance to stay in Saudi Arabia, compete for major titles, and feature in the Club World Cup—a potential double win.

In second place is Al Nassr, should the club succeed in renewing his contract. The odds for his continued stay there stand at 3.50.

LAFC takes third place in the odds. After defeating Club América last night and securing their spot in the Club World Cup, they have become a serious contender to welcome Ronaldo to the MLS and give him another shot at international club competition.

Another club among the top contenders is Inter Miami. The long-imagined dream of seeing Ronaldo and Lionel Messi play together remains enticing, although such a pairing seems less likely now than before. Inter Miami holds odds of 19.00 and sits seventh on the list of favourites.

The current top favourites to sign Cristiano Ronaldo include:

1. Al Hilal
2. Al Nassr
3. LAFC
4. Monterrey
5. Botafogo
6. Sporting Clube de Portugal
7. Inter Miami

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For now, Ronaldo’s path remains unclear—but with the Club World Cup approaching and his contract expiration looming, the speculation is only heating up.

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