Saudi Arabia’s government investment fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is reportedly offering Cristiano Ronaldo’s club Al-Nassr and three other top Saudi teams for sale. The move comes as the country plans to slow down the big spending that shook world football.

In 2023 the PIF took control of the four biggest Saudi clubs: Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli and Al-Hilal. The fund bought most of each club while the country’s Ministry of Sport kept a minority share. Now the PIF says it wants to find private buyers for those teams.

Under the 2023 deal, the PIF became the main owner of each club. The Ministry of Sport kept a 25% stake. Reports say any sale would likely include that 25% as well, which would let new investors take full control.

After the PIF takeover, Saudi teams spent heavily on star players. Big names from Europe arrived, which helped the Saudi Pro League gain attention around the world. The signings were part of a plan to grow the league quickly and raise its profile.

The reported sale shows a change in strategy. The PIF appears ready to slow down huge transfers and shift some responsibility to private owners. Selling the clubs would also let investors shape the teams’ futures and bring new business ideas.

If private investors buy the clubs, their plans will decide what happens next. Some may keep spending on big names, while others could focus on building youth systems, infrastructure, or stronger finances. Overall, the sale could mark the end of the recent spending spree and the start of a steadier era for Saudi football.

Selling Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli and Al-Hilal would be a major change for Saudi sport — moving the game from heavy state backing toward private ownership and a more cautious approach to money.