Vinicius Junior, the Real Madrid and Brazil forward, has received an offer of more than one billion euros from Saudi Arabia, as per sources close to the player. The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) officials approached Vinicius with a proposal to move to the Saudi Pro League (SPL) on a five-year contract worth around 200 million euros per season along with bonuses. The package also includes a 10-year ambassadorial contract for the 2034 World Cup set to be held in the country. While the terms and financial details are yet to be discussed, Vinicius has not dismissed the move and has allowed PIF to approach Real Madrid.
Despite being happy and motivated in Madrid, Vinicius and his representatives believe that such a lucrative offer needs thorough consideration. Real Madrid has not shown any interest in negotiating a transfer, citing the player’s one billion euro buy-out clause. With no official offer presented yet, both Real Madrid and PIF have remained silent on the matter. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been making significant strides in global football ambitions, with PIF taking ownership of the country’s main clubs and attracting top talent like Neymar and Benzema in recent times.
The Saudi Pro League has been active in pursuing high-profile players, targeting big names like Kylian Mbappe, who eventually chose to join Real Madrid over a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia last year. The proposal for Vinicius is said to be on par with the Mbappe offer, with the Brazilian potentially joining Al Ahli alongside players like Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino. Vinicius is under contract with Real Madrid until 2027, having extended his deal in 2022. His exceptional performance, winning the Champions League and La Liga double last season, has put him in contention for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.
The potential move to Saudi Arabia could be a game-changer for Vinicius, offering a substantial increase in his salary and unique opportunities as an ambassador for the World Cup. While no official offer has been made, the interest from Saudi Arabia has opened up new possibilities for the talented forward. Real Madrid’s stance on the matter remains firm, as they have shown no willingness to negotiate a transfer for Vinicius. The player’s willingness to explore such an offer despite his current contentment at the Spanish capital reflects his ambition and desire to further his career.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s investments in football have raised eyebrows in the global football community, with top players considering moves to the lucrative SPL. The move could potentially reshape the landscape of world football, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a serious contender in attracting top talent. The competition between clubs like Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, and Al Nassr for top players reflects the ambitious goals set by the Saudi authorities to elevate the status of football in the country. As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on Vinicius and his decision regarding the lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia.