The Brazilian winger has not extended his contract with Real Madrid, and his departure has become a real possibility.
Al-Ahli is preparing a historic attack to sign Vinícius Jr. from Real Madrid. The Saudi Arabian club is willing to break all market records with a bid that could reach €350 million – a sum that far surpasses all previous transfers. Although the Brazilian winger has publicly confirmed his willingness to stay in Madrid, the lack of a final deal on a contract extension keeps the door open for Saudi interest, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.
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Long-standing Saudi interest
Discussions between Vinícius’ representatives and Saudi leaders are not new. For over a year, the player’s name has been among the Saudi Pro League’s top priorities to bolster the league with world-class players. Despite Vinícius’ desire to continue in Europe and a contract that lasts until 2027, the lack of an official extension with Madrid has revived Saudi interest – now with a formal bid in the pipeline.
Real Madrid in a vulnerable position
The situation is particularly sensitive for Real Madrid. Although both the club and the player express calm, a bid of 350 million euros from Al-Ahli will inevitably cause unrest. Vinícius has not completely closed the door on an adventure in Saudi Arabia, but has emphasized that Madrid is his first choice.
Saudi Arabia’s sports ministry and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) believe Vinícius’ arrival could raise the league’s prestige to levels similar to the signings of Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Karim Benzema. According to leaks from Saudi Arabia, the plan is to try and entice the player before he extends – but if that fails, they will try again around the 2027/28 season, when he is at the peak of his career.
Madrid is working on extension
In Madrid, they are working calmly to extend the Brazilian’s contract as soon as possible. Nevertheless, Al-Ahli’s ambitions show that the temptation of Saudi oil money still threatens even one of “Los Blanco’s” biggest stars.
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