Al-Nassr has informed ex-Liverpool ace Sadio Mane that he is free to depart this summer as his side aims to bring in a top-tier replacement to Saudi Arabia.
The decision continues Mane's challenging period post-Anfield, which began after Liverpool's Champions League final defeat in 2022. While he was a standout performer for the Reds, forming part of one of Europe's most formidable attacks, his form has dipped since leaving the UK.
A stint at Bayern Munich lasted just a season, and now Al-Nassr, where he has played alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, has given him the green light to explore new opportunities after two seasons in the Middle East.
With restrictions on the number of foreign players allowed in a team, the Saudi club has set its sights on Alejandro Garnacho.
The Manchester United player has struggled to impress Ruben Amorim, often finding himself benched during crucial matches, and a move away from Old Trafford is under discussion and could potentially benefit all involved.
Mane's former Liverpool colleague Luis Diaz was also considered, but Arne Slot insists he wants to keep the player. This is despite the Colombian revealing he hasn't entered contract negotiations with Anfield officials as he contemplates his future.
Sadio Mane
Al-Nassr has told Sadio Mane that he can leave the club (Image: Getty Images)
All these developments could leave the Senegalese icon searching for a new club, and he's also facing challenges on the international stage - so much so that he's requested to be excused from his country's upcoming match against England.
The Three Lions are set to host the African nation at the City Ground in Nottingham in just a few days.
Mane requested to be omitted from Senegal's marquee friendly against England after facing criticism and online abuse for his recent showings for the national side.
The 33 year old was disheartened by the barrage of negative attention following the World Cup qualifiers against Sudan and Togo in March.
Luis Diaz was wanted by the Saudi side
Luis Diaz was wanted by the Saudi side (Image: AFP or licensors)
He chose not to participate in Friday night's game against the Republic of Ireland and the upcoming match with England, citing "personal reasons" which coach Pape Thiaw accepted with some reluctance.
Thiaw commented: "It is a personal decision that belongs to Mane - and I respect it as a coach. Sadio is a very important player for us.
"But I don't coach one player, I coach 26 players, and so the most important thing is the collective. I have put together a squad of players who are available and ready to fight with pride for the national jersey."