Pioli’s Al-Nassr Journey: Market moves and targets Danilo and David

Stefano Pioli is eager to re-establish himself away from Italy after more than two decades spent coaching in Serie A and facing European challenges. In September, he accepted an offer from Al-Nassr, a Saudi club that promised a lucrative salary and an ambitious project. Now, just months into his tenure in Riyadh, Al-Awwal Park is set to host the Italian Super Cup, featuring teams like Inter, Atalanta, Juventus, and Milan competing for the trophy.

Currently, Al-Nassr sits in fourth place in the league with 25 points, trailing leaders Al-Ittihad by eleven points. Calciomercato report how, since taking over from Luis Castro in mid-September, Pioli has achieved an average of two points per game, with six wins, four draws, and two losses. The team’s recent defeats came just before the December break for the Gulf Cup against Al-Qadisiya and Al-Ittihad, setbacks that have slowed their title aspirations. However, Al-Nassr is performing well in the AFC Champions League, having already secured qualification for the knockout stage with two games to spare.

Working alongside Cristiano Ronaldo has been a highlight for Pioli. He described the Portuguese superstar as an exemplary professional with the enthusiasm of a young player. Ronaldo has made a significant impact on the pitch, scoring 16 goals in 19 appearances and averaging a goal every 104 minutes. Some of his goals have been crucial, particularly during the derby against Al-Hilal. However, there have also been unfortunate moments, such as missing a penalty in the dying minutes of a King’s Cup quarter-final against Al-Tawoon, which led to the team’s elimination.

As the winter transfer window approaches, Al-Nassr is eyeing potential signings. One of their targets is Danilo, the Brazilian defender and captain of Juventus, who is reportedly on his way out of Turin. Napoli is also interested in Danilo as they seek reinforcements due to Buongiorno’s injury. While Al-Nassr has shown some interest in Danilo, they have yet to make an official offer to Juventus. The competition between the Saudi club and Napoli could heat up in the coming weeks if Danilo receives clearance for an early exit from Juventus.

Additionally, Al-Nassr has set its sights on Jonathan David from Lille. The Canadian striker’s contract expires at the end of the season, making him an attractive option for several European clubs, including Juventus and Inter Milan. Al-Nassr may propose a fee between €10 million and €15 million to Lille while offering David a salary exceeding €6 million per year.

On another front, there are rumors of a potential market intertwining with Fenerbahce involving Anderson Talisca and Youssef En-Nesyri. Initially rejecting a €35 million offer from Al-Nassr for En-Nesyri, Fenerbahce might reconsider if presented with a €40 million bid. However, Saeed Abu Dahesh, Al-Nassr’s media advisor, dismissed reports of renewed interest in En-Nesyri as “false information.” Meanwhile, Talisca’s future remains uncertain due to ongoing financial discussions between him and Al-Nassr.

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