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MADRID, October 27, 2023 — Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr. is the subject of a staggering €1 billion (£870 million/$1.2 billion) offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, according to a new report, raising questions about the future of the 25-year-old Brazilian star at the Bernabéu.
Saudi Arabia Tests Real Madrid’s Resolve with Colossal Bid
The offer, reported by sports journalist Ben Jacobs, could reshape the landscape of European football.
- Al-Ahli is reportedly leading the chase for Vinicius Jr., offering a contract worth €1 billion.
- Negotiations between Real Madrid and Vinicius regarding a contract extension have reportedly stalled.
- A strained relationship with former manager Xabi Alonso contributed to Vinicius’s recent struggles and fan discontent.
- Saudi Pro League clubs have aggressively pursued high-profile players, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.
The potential move comes as Vinicius has faced a difficult season with Real Madrid, regularly being booed by supporters following a goal drought that stretched for 22 games before he finally scored against Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. The winger has endured a challenging period, marked by visible frustration and a public outburst.
What is the current situation surrounding Vinicius Jr.’s future at Real Madrid? While Real Madrid reportedly wants to extend Vinicius’s contract, which is set to expire in June 2027, discussions have been put on hold, reportedly under the direction of Xabi Alonso.
Relations between Vinicius and Alonso were reportedly strained before Alonso’s dismissal after Real Madrid’s 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. The tension boiled over in October, after Vinicius was substituted during a 2-1 La Liga win over Barcelona. Cameras captured him declaring, “Still me! I’m leaving the team! It’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.” He later apologized to supporters for the outburst.
This isn’t a new pursuit. According to the report, Saudi Pro League executives have been in contact with Vinicius’s representatives for over a year, aiming to attract another major star to the Gulf country. The Saudi Pro League has already lured a host of prominent players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, Fabinho, Riyad Mahrez, Kingsley Coman and Ruben Neves.
The discontent wasn’t limited to his relationship with the manager. Vinicius, along with teammates Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde, were heavily booed by Real Madrid fans during a recent La Liga match against Levante, reportedly due to their perceived alignment with Alonso. The Bernabéu faithful targeted the trio, reflecting the broader tensions within the club.
Did you know? The Saudi Pro League has emerged as a significant player in the transfer market, backed by substantial investment from the Public Investment Fund.
Vinicius’s long-term future remains uncertain as he navigates a challenging period both on and off the pitch. The colossal offer from Al-Ahli presents Real Madrid with a difficult decision, potentially testing their commitment to retaining one of their key assets.
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