Al-Ittihad officially sign midfielder from Cristiano Ronaldo’s club

Cristiano Ronaldo remains one of the busiest figures in football.

The former Manchester United star has been balancing his playing career alongside several major projects away from the pitch.

The 41-year-old currently represents Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where he continues chasing the remarkable milestone of 1,000 career goals.

Ronaldo also recently confirmed that he is not ready to walk away from international football despite Portugal’s painful exit from the 2026 World Cup.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner now has UEFA Euro 2028 in his sights as he looks to extend an already historic international career.

His club football remains equally competitive, with Al-Nassr battling major Saudi rivals such as Al-Ittihad for domestic honours.

However, Ronaldo’s influence now stretches beyond his own performances on the pitch.

Earlier this year, he expanded his football portfolio by acquiring a 25 per cent stake in Spanish club UD Almeria.

That project has now completed a significant transfer involving one of its most experienced midfielders.

Cristiano Ronaldo sells midfielder

Al-Ittihad have officially signed Dion Lopy from UD Almeria after the two clubs reached an agreement over a permanent transfer.

Lopy leaves after joining Almeria from French side Reims in the summer of 2023.

The Senegal international developed into an important player during his three seasons in Spain, making more than 90 appearances.

Primarily a defensive midfielder, the 24-year-old is known for his physical strength, defensive awareness and ability to carry the ball through midfield.

He previously made 59 senior appearances for Reims after progressing through football in Senegal.

Lopy has also represented Senegal at youth and senior level.

He featured at the 2019 Under-20 World Cup before earning five appearances for the senior national team.

His move adds another intriguing angle to the rivalry between Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad, with the midfielder now beginning a new chapter away from the Portuguese icon’s Spanish investment.