Saudi Pro League make HUGE offer to Real Madrid star

Updated: 12 Aug 2024 09:56 BST
3 min read

Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has turned down a lucrative offer to become the marquee signing for the Saudi Pro League this summer.

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Teams from Saudi Arabia spent nearly €900 million on players last summer, hoping to attract superstars from across the globe to grow the profile of football in the country.

However, Saudi Pro League teams have spent less than €200m this summer, with Moussa Diaby’s €60m move from Aston Villa to Al-Ittihad representing the biggest outlay so far.

The country is still seeking a major acquisition this summer and The Athletic has revealed that an attempt was made to sign Vinicius, however the 24-year-old turned down the move as he is happy in Madrid.

A delegation from the Saudi’s Public Investment Fund, who were working on behalf of the country’s Ministry of Sport, are said to have reached out to Vinicius’ representatives over a move.

With Saudi Arabia set to host the 2034 World Cup, there were hopes Vinicius would become the face of the Pro League but the Brazilian turned down the opportunity and is hoping to fulfil his ambition of winning the Ballon d’Or as a Real Madrid player.

© IMAGO - Vini Jr has rejected the chance to move to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi expected to continue pursuing Vinicius

Vini Jr has three years remaining on his contract at Real, which contains a release clause of €1 billion.

Real have no desire to sell their talisman even with the arrival of Kylian Mbappe this summer, with the French star also preferring to play in Vinicius’ preferred position on the left wing.

Despite the rejection from Vinicius, Saudi Arabia are expected to renew their interest in the forward in the future, particularly if his contract continues to wind down without an extension.

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€94.8M - €158M

However, Real would not be open to negotiating for their prized jewel, whom they signed for €45m in 2018, and would likely test Saudi’s resolve by pointing to Vinicius’ release clause if they wish to sign him.

Read more about: La Liga, Pro League, Al-Ittihad, Aston Villa, Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Junior