Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr could beat Manchester United to the signing of Brazilian wonderkid Ricardo Mathias, with reports in Brazil claiming the Saudi club have made a formal approach. United had scouts track the 19-year-old Internacional striker last month, but their hopes of landing him may now be dashed as Al-Nassr look to add him to their ambitious project.
Al-Nassr make a move for Internacional striker Ricardo MathiasManchester United and PSV also scouted the 19-year-old talentBrazilian forward has €65m release clause in contract until 2028Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte report that Al-Nassr have submitted a proposal to Internacional for Mathias. Although the value of the bid has not been disclosed, the Brazilian striker only recently renewed his contract until 2028, which includes a €65 million (£56m/$76m) release clause. The Saudi giants are confident of convincing the player, who has already drawn interest from European clubs including PSV and Manchester United.
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United have already strengthened their frontline this summer but continue to scout long-term talents across the globe. Mathias has quickly risen in Brazil and would represent a move for the future, yet Al-Nassr’s financial muscle could prove decisive. Playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo is also seen as a huge lure for the teenager.
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Mathias broke into Internacional’s first team last season and has made a strong impression this year, scoring twice in the Brazilian league. United scouts attended his match against Fluminense earlier this summer, while PSV Eindhoven also had eyes on him. Internacional inserted the €65m clause after rejecting previous interest, ensuring they retain control of his next move.
AFPWHAT NEXT FOR MATHIAS?
It remains to be seen whether Al-Nassr can strike a deal with Internacional, who may hold out for a figure closer to the player’s release clause. Manchester United will continue to monitor the situation, though a bidding war with Saudi clubs may not be in their plans. For Mathias, the decision will be whether to join Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia or wait for a European opportunity.