Real Madrid’s Brazilian star Vinicius Jr is considering a staggering €1bn ($1.1bn) move to the Saudi Pro League, according to a Reuters report.
Unnamed sources reveal that the Public Investment Fund (PIF) has approached the 24-year-old forward to gauge interest in relocating to Saudi Arabia.
The report claims that Vinicius Jr, a strong contender for the 2024 Ballon D’or, will be offered a salary of around $220m annually until 2029.
Vinicius Jr to Saudi Arabia? Additionally, it’s said that Vinicius Jr would be offered a 10-year deal to promote the 2034 World Cup planned to be held in Saudi Arabia.
No specific Saudi club has been identified as a potential destination for the forward. However, PIF, which holds a 75% share in four clubs – Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, and Al Nassr – makes these clubs likely contenders.
Apart from the astronomical salary, any potential transfer would likely require a record fee to be paid to Real Madrid.
The Spanish La Liga champions aim to keep their star player to pair with new recruit Kylian Mbappe and rising star Jude Bellingham.
Vinicius Jr’s release clause stands at $1.1bn, meaning interested buyers would need to meet this amount if Real Madrid refuses to sell.
While such speculation might have been dismissed prior to Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival 18 months ago, the ambition and financial backing of the Saudi Pro League are now evident.
Despite unsuccessful attempts to sign Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, stars like Karim Benzema, Neymar Jr, and Cristiano Ronaldo have already shifted the football landscape in Saudi Arabia.