Vinicius Junior’s momentum doesn’t appear to be slowing down, as a recent report from Mundo Deportivo confirmed that the Real Madrid star’s links with Saudi Arabia are still very much alive.
Although Vinicius’s importance at the Santiago Bernabeu continued to rise over time, interest in the Middle East never really faded.
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In early 2025, when news emerged that the Brazilian had not completely ruled out a future move to Saudi Arabia, the rumors surrounding his links with the Saudis became increasingly louder, especially if Real Madrid failed to meet his expectations for a contract extension.
Story background
Reportedly, around that time, serious steps were taken as this was not a casual approach.
According to reports, Vinicius himself participated in a 15-minute video conference with influential representatives of the Saudi royal family.
During that conversation, the striker reportedly listened carefully to financial and sporting advice, as well as the wider social ambitions associated with the project.
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That meeting didn’t end there. Further evidence suggests a face-to-face meeting also took place in Prague, where representatives of Vinicius sat down with Saad Al Raziz, vice-president of the Saudi Professional League.
Vinicius continues to be linked with Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
The numbers in question are simply shocking. The proposal reportedly includes a package worth a total of €1 billion over five seasons, which would see Vinicius earn around €200 million per season.
There is a bigger motive
All are part of a wider strategy driven by the Saudi government and major sports executives, with the goal of reaching the 2034 World Cup.
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Signing global superstars is considered crucial to boosting the league’s profile ahead of the landmark tournament.
While a final decision has not yet been made, clarity is expected in the coming months.
For now, Real Madrid remain calm. Vinicius is contracted until 2027, and any club hoping to sign him before then will need to activate his €1 billion release clause.
He remains the star player at the Santiago Bernabeu, but with the spotlight on Kylian Mbappe growing, there is a feeling a shift in dynamics could test the Brazilian superstar’s ego.
