Otávio rejects offer from Saudi second division and keeps future at Al-Nassr open
Midfielder turned down millionaire deals in Saudi Arabia and Brazil, while prioritizing a potential move to Europe.
Al-Nassr saga continues
Otávio’s situation at Al-Nassr remains uncertain after being sidelined by coach Jorge Jesus. According to ESPN, the Portuguese-Brazilian rejected a two-year contract with Al Diraiyah, from the Saudi second division, worth €9 million (R$58 million) per season.
Despite the proposal, the midfielder signaled that he prefers to remain at Al-Nassr where he earns almost twice that salary unless an offer with a strong sporting project arrives. His contract runs until June 2026, and to terminate it, he demands payment of nearly all outstanding wages. His current market value, according to Transfermarkt, is €15 million (R$95.3 million).
From star signing to decline
Signed by Al-Nassr in August 2023 for €60 million (R$321 million) after his successful spell at Porto, Otávio was expected to be a cornerstone in Riyadh. In his debut season, he delivered 11 goals and 7 assists in 44 matches, his best career numbers. Last season, however, his influence dropped: just 1 goal and 8 assists in 40 games.
Brazilian clubs made approaches
Recently, Grêmio showed interest in the midfielder, following a previous approach by Palmeiras. However, negotiations did not progress due to the high costs involved. Despite these approaches, Otávio has already made it clear that a return to Brazil is not in his immediate plans.
Priority is Europe
At 29, Otávio wants to continue in a competitive league and gives priority to a European project. For now, his future remains undecided, as Al-Nassr weighs its options and the player awaits new offers.
