Real Madrid have a squad full of superstars, Galacticos as they call it, and the latest manager entrusted with making them a competitive unit is Xabi Alonso. The Spanish tactician has already managed his first tournament with Los Blancos, leading them to the Club World Cup semi-final.
Among the many superstars in the Real Madrid squad, one of them who has been there for a long time is Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian attacker was the face of the team at some point in the past few seasons, but the last few months haven’t been the best for him, from a personal perspective.
Vinicius had an unbelievable 2023/24 season where he terrorised opposition defences for fun and consistently chipped in with goals and assists. His performance in the latter stages of the Champions League was a sight to behold.
Yet, the past few months have been challenging for the 25-year-old on a personal level, and his unresolved contract situation has opened the door to a potential blockbuster move.
Saudi chiefs want Vinicius Junior
According to Ben Jacobs, Saudi Pro League officials are preparing a world-record €350 million bid to lure Vinicius away from Real Madrid. The offer would eclipse the €222m Paris Saint-Germain paid for Neymar in 2017, signaling Saudi Arabia’s ambition to secure the Brazilian winger.
Discussions with Vinicius about a move to the Saudi Pro League have been ongoing for over a year, with a non-binding proposal of €1 billion, including bonuses, tabled for a five-year contract.
Vinicius has publicly expressed his desire to stay at Real Madrid, where he is in talks for a contract extension. However, with his current deal running until 2027 and no new agreement finalized, Saudi executives are growing increasingly optimistic.
Al Ahli, the reigning Asian Champions League winners, have been identified as Vinicius’ potential destination. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Ministry of Sport, Al Ahli is seen as primed for a marquee signing to rival the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr), Karim Benzema (Al Ittihad), and Neymar (formerly Al Hilal).
While the club boasts stars like Riyad Mahrez and Ivan Toney, Saudi officials view Vinicius as a transformative addition.
Despite his stated preference to remain at the Bernabeu, the report suggests Vinicius has not entirely closed the door on a future move to Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Pro League is adopting a patient approach, targeting a transfer within the next three years, potentially by the 2027/28 season when Vinicius is still at his peak. A massive bid this summer remains a possibility, particularly if contract negotiations with Real Madrid stall further.
Vinicius is essential for Real Madrid
For now, Real Madrid fans can remain optimistic. Los Blancos are building a formidable squad with ambitions of dominating Europe in the upcoming season, and Vinicius firing on all cylinders will be crucial to their success.
However, it remains to be seen whether the Brazilian will commit his future to Los Merengues with a new contract or be tempted by the unprecedented financial allure of the Saudi Pro League in the years ahead.
