Real Madrid and Brazil forward Vinicius Jr is open to considering a staggering offer from Saudi Arabia, potentially exceeding one billion euros. Sources close to the player revealed that officials from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) have approached Vinicius, inquiring about his interest in joining the Saudi Pro League (SPL) on a five-year contract worth approximately 200 million euros per season, excluding bonuses. The package also includes a separate ten-year contract to serve as an ambassador for the 2034 World Cup, which is slated to be hosted in the country. While specific financial details and terms related to the ambassadorship remain to be discussed, Vinicius has not dismissed the possibility of a move to Saudi Arabia. He has granted PIF permission to approach Real Madrid regarding the transfer.
Despite expressing happiness and motivation at Real Madrid, Vinicius and his representatives acknowledge the significant financial implications of such an offer, demanding careful consideration. Another source close to the player indicated that Real Madrid has shown no inclination to negotiate a transfer, citing the player’s one billion euro buy-out clause. Real Madrid and PIF have not responded to requests for comment.
Saudi Arabia’s aggressive pursuit of top talent is driven by its ambition to elevate its domestic league into a global football force. The country’s Sports Clubs Investment and Privatisation Project, spearheaded by PIF, has seen the fund acquire 75% ownership in four of the nation’s most prominent clubs: Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, and Al Nassr.
The most significant Saudi transfer to date involved Al Hilal, who shelled out 90 million euros to secure the services of Neymar from Paris St Germain. The country’s most successful club, Al Hilal, previously secured the signature of Karim Benzema, while Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al Nassr. Last year, PIF attempted to lure France captain Kylian Mbappe to Al Ahli, but the forward opted for a move to Real Madrid in June. The proposal for Vinicius is reportedly similar to the offer made to Mbappe. If he accepts, Vinicius would join Al Ahli, joining forces with former Premier League stars Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino.
Vinicius, currently under contract with Real Madrid until 2027 after signing an extension in 2022, is a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or award, recognizing the best player in the world. His stellar performance last season, which saw Real Madrid clinch both the Champions League and LaLiga titles, further solidifies his position among the world’s elite footballers.
