Saudi Arabia Prepare Record-Breaking Bid for Vinícius
Saudi Arabia are back with an unprecedented proposal, and the future of one of Real Madrid’s biggest stars is once again under intense scrutiny.
A move that could shake the market
The international transfer market is bracing for a potential shockwave. According to English journalist Ben Jacobs, a talkSPORT commentator and Give Me Sport correspondent, Real Madrid are expected to receive a formal offer for Vinícius Júnior next summer from Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Pro League have not backed down in their pursuit of the Brazilian star and are reportedly willing to offer a contract worth up to €1 billion. In that scenario, Al-Ahli are seen as the club best positioned to push the deal forward.
The statement signing Saudi football wants
Signing Vinícius would go far beyond a marquee transfer. For Saudi football, it would be a global statement of intent: proof that the league can attract players in their prime, not just those nearing the end of their careers.
Landing one of the world’s best would fundamentally reshape the international perception of the Saudi Pro League and strengthen its long-term sporting project.
Real Madrid renewal talks on hold
Meanwhile, Real Madrid continue to work on securing the future of their star. Contract extension talks with Vinícius were put on hold following the departure of Xabi Alonso, but the club are expected to reopen negotiations in the coming weeks.
The player himself struck a calm tone after the Champions League win over Monaco, where he was named MVP:
“I trust Florentino and he trusts me. I want to stay here for many more years. I still have a year on my contract and there’s no rush,” the Brazilian said.
Pressure from the player’s camp
Despite that public stance, sources close to the player have been exploring the Saudi option for over a year, highlighting the scale of a financial proposal that would be unprecedented in football history.
At the Real Madrid boardroom, the message is clear: if Vinícius decides to leave, the club will aim for a historic transfer fee. Letting him walk away for free in 2027 is not an option under any circumstances.
A fragile relationship with the fans
The situation became even more delicate after last weekend’s match against Levante. The whistles directed at Vinícius at the Santiago Bernabéu opened an emotional rift between the player and part of the fanbase — one that may prove difficult to heal.
With Xabi Alonso no longer at the club, the coming weeks are expected to be decisive. If no agreement is reached, Real Madrid could be forced into a decision with explosive consequences: selling one of the most influential players the club has had over the past five years — a move that would reverberate across European football.
