Al-Nassr’s aggressive summer transfer business is beginning to shape not just the Saudi Pro League, but also affect clubs like Manchester United in their plans.
The Saudi club, still chasing a first league title since 2019, are determined to end their trophy drought and have been targeting out-of-favour Premier League talent to boost their chances.
United’s Antony has been on their radar for weeks, with a formal bid already sent to Old Trafford, and the Brazilian winger’s agent recently admitting his client is open to a move to Saudi Arabia.
United have been keen to offload Antony permanently, and with Marcus Rashford out on loan at Barcelona, a potential exit would further reshape the Red Devils’ attacking options.
But Al-Nassr’s latest signing may throw a spanner in the works.
Joao Felix has officially joined Al-Nassr on a permanent transfer from Chelsea, as officially confirmed by Chelsea’s website, following a brief spell at Stamford Bridge and a loan at AC Milan.
The deal is worth €45m (£38m) upfront, potentially rising to €50m (£42m) with add-ons and includes a sell-on clause – showing serious financial investment from the Saudi club.
The big-money move may now lessen Al-Nassr’s urgency to land Antony, especially given the similar profile and role Felix occupies in the squad.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s windfall from the Felix deal could directly impact United’s stance with Alejandro Garnacho.
Having already spent heavily on Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, and closing in on Xavi Simons and Jorrel Hato, the Blues now have added financial firepower to pursue Garnacho if they choose to push.
Though United are not actively trying to sell the Argentina international, Chelsea’s ability to spend could test their resolve should the Blues see the need to add another winger.
So while Felix may no longer be a Premier League player, his move to Al-Nassr may have ripple effects that United will be watching very closely.
