Key Takeaways:
- Francisco Trincao has declined Al-Nassr’s lucrative offer and confirmed his intention to remain at Sporting CP
- Sporting CP are preparing to elevate Trincao to the club’s highest wage tier with a new contract
- Trincao’s strong form this season has supported Sporting’s ambitions for a third consecutive Primeira Liga title
Transfer Approach Rebuffed
Francisco Trincao has rejected interest from Al-Nassr, opting to continue with Sporting CP rather than pursue a move to the Saudi Pro League. According to A Bola, Al-Nassr made contact hoping to secure the winger’s services, but Trincao promptly turned down the approach, reaffirming his commitment to remain in Portugal.
New Deal and Sporting’s Financial Commitment
In recognition of his loyalty, Sporting CP are set to reward Trincao by placing him among the club’s highest earners, joining the ranks of Morten Hjulmand, Goncalo Inacio, and Daniel Braganca. The planned contract renewal includes a notable pay increase for the Portuguese winger. His impressive early season displays—netting three goals and contributing one assist—encouraged Sporting to purchase Barcelona’s remaining 50 percent stake in Trincao’s rights last week for €11 million. Sporting had already acquired the initial half of his rights in 2023 for €7 million, plus a €3 million loan fee.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Transfer Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018-2020 | Braga | 33 | 8 | – |
| 2020 | Barcelona | – | – | €30m (£25m/$35m) |
| 2022-Present | Sporting CP | 100 | 29 | €7m + €3m loan; €11m for remaining rights |
Career Trajectory and Market Value
Trincao’s move to Barcelona in 2020 followed a two-year spell at Braga, during which he scored eight times in 33 matches—form that merited a €30 million transfer. However, his tenure with the Spanish giants proved challenging, leading to a return to Portugal with Sporting, where he has since scored 29 goals in 100 appearances to firmly establish himself at the Estadio Jose Alvalade.
His continual development has not gone unnoticed, with previous manager Ruben Amorim—now at Manchester United—reportedly interested. However, Sporting’s hefty valuation of Trincao has thus far deterred a move to the Premier League outfit.
Al-Nassr’s Alternative Signing and Sporting’s Aspirations
Despite missing out on the Sporting winger, Al-Nassr have bolstered their ranks by acquiring Kingsley Coman from Bayern Munich on a three-year contract. Trincao’s excellent form at the beginning of this campaign will be vital as Sporting CP pursue a third consecutive Primeira Liga title. In addition, the winger is eyeing a prominent role under Portugal manager Roberto Martinez, with hopes of securing a starting berth for the 2026 World Cup.
