Al Nassr hit by big blow in bid to land Ederson

Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr have been reportedly dealt a major blow in their pursuit to land Ederson from Manchester City and the Riyadh based club is now looking at an alternative target. 

According to Fabrizo Romano, the PL champions have rejected an initial £25 million ($33m/€30 million) offer for the Brazilian international from Al-Nass as they value him at a significantly higher price of about £50 million ($65m/€60 million). The difference in valuation has led to a halt in negotiations, in spite of the shot stopper already agreeing to try a new challenge in the Middle East. 

Considering the failed bid for Ederson, Al Nassar are now allegedly shifting their attention towards Athletico Paranaense and Brazil goalkeeper Bento. Discussions are said to be underway with the Saudi club eyeing alternative options to strengthen their squad. The shift in attention underlines the urgency with which Al Nassr are handling the goalkeeper situation as they need to replace current keeper David Ospina. 

According to reports from The Sun, City are planning to come up with a new and revised deal for Ederson, which includes weekly wages of £900,000, a considerable signing bonus, and a total pay increase of 75 per cent. While this package might not be equivalent to the financial terms proposed by Al-Nassr, it would take Ederson’s earnings to about £1m per month.

The 30 year old remains an important figure for City. The efforts to propose a new deal highlights his importance to Pep Guardiola’s squad. Despite the temptation of Nassr’s offer, the club remains resolute to not let go of their goal stopper, indicating his significance to the team’s future success. The keeper has already returned to pre-season training with The Cityzens and is preparing for a fresh campaign in an ideal way as Stefan Ortega remains on stand-by.