Feyenoord’s star defender David Hancko could be on the verge of a historic transfer to Saudi Arabia, with Dutch sources reporting strong interest from Al-Nassr, the Saudi Pro League club featuring Cristiano Ronaldo. The Slovakian centre-back, widely regarded as one of the Eredivisie’s top talents, has attracted attention from several European clubs, but Al-Nassr’s ambitious offer could see him become Feyenoord’s most expensive outgoing transfer ever.
According to reports from Dutch outlet Voetbal International and Algemeen Dagblad, Al-Nassr is prepared to table a bid exceeding €32 million, surpassing the record set by Santiago Giménez’s recent move to AC Milan for the same amount. Hancko, who is under contract with Feyenoord until 2028, has a market value estimated around €32 million, but the Rotterdam club’s strong negotiating position could drive the fee even higher. The 27-year-old’s versatility, able to play both centre-back and left-back, combined with his leadership and goal-scoring ability—evidenced by four goals and four assists this season—makes him a prime target for the Saudi club.
Hancko has remained tight-lipped about the speculation, telling ESPN that his focus is on Feyenoord’s final three league matches of the season. “I’m not going to say anything about [Al-Nassr],” he said. “The most important thing is that we finish this season well with Feyenoord.” Despite his commitment to the club, Hancko has acknowledged the persistent transfer rumors, noting that while interest has surfaced over the past three years, no deal has ever materialized. “Three years of rumors, but nobody came for me and made it happen,” he told OneFootball. Feyenoord, however, appears resigned to losing their defensive stalwart in the summer, with Hancko himself indicating a preference for a move at the end of the season.
Al-Nassr’s pursuit is led by their sporting director, Fernando Hierro, who has reportedly traveled to Rotterdam multiple times to scout Hancko personally. The Saudi club’s financial muscle poses a significant challenge for European suitors, including Chelsea, West Ham United, Juventus, and Atlético Madrid, all of whom have been linked with the defender. Voetbal International suggests that Al-Nassr’s offer could outstrip what European clubs are willing to pay, potentially tempting Hancko with a lucrative personal contract. Posts on X reflect growing sentiment that the transfer is likely, with one user stating, “I think it’s going to happen,” while another noted Al-Nassr’s willingness to “break the transfer record” for the Feyenoord star.
Chelsea and West Ham, both eyeing defensive reinforcements, face a financial tug-of-war, as Al-Nassr’s bid is expected to exceed £27 million, according to football.london. Juventus, who have an agreement in principle with Hancko for a €3.5 million annual salary, are reluctant to meet Feyenoord’s €40 million asking price, per Tuttomercatoweb. Atlético Madrid, once close to signing Hancko, have been priced out, with Fichajes.net reporting that the Saudi move “definitively distances” him from the Spanish club. Liverpool, where Hancko’s former Feyenoord manager Arne Slot now coaches, have also been mentioned, but their interest hinges on the uncertain future of Virgil van Dijk.
Feyenoord’s management is already planning for Hancko’s potential departure, with the club reportedly unconvinced by loanee Facundo Gonzalez as a long-term replacement. “The difference to Gonzalez is just too big,” said Feyenoord watcher Dennis van Eersel, as quoted by OneFootball. The Rotterdam outfit hopes to maximize the transfer fee to reinvest in the squad, with Hancko himself expressing a desire to benefit the club financially. “If a club wants to break the record for me, that would be nice. That helps Feyenoord,” he said.