RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Claims of a world record transfer bid for Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior by Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli have been denied by sources close to the situation, 90min reports. This revelation comes amid a flurry of high-profile transfer activities involving Saudi Arabian clubs.
Recent reports from Spain suggested that Al Ahli had made a staggering €500 million (£422 million) offer for the Brazilian winger, accompanied by a proposed five-year contract worth €1 billion (£844 million), plus potential bonuses. However, sources in Saudi Arabia have categorically denied the existence of any such proposal.
Vinicius Junior, a leading contender for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, has been frequently linked with moves to Saudi Arabia throughout the summer transfer window. While it’s common practice for intermediaries to make initial inquiries and communicate basic offers to gauge interest, there is no confirmation that any meaningful attempts have been made to secure the Real Madrid player’s services.
The denial of this specific offer aligns with the understanding that Vinicius Junior is not currently interested in a move to Saudi Arabia at this stage of his career. Despite the ambitious nature of Saudi Arabian football authorities in attracting top talent, there is an awareness that certain players, including Vinicius, are not yet ready to make such a transition.
Saudi Pro League clubs are, however, actively pursuing other high-profile targets. Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is among those being courted, although his agent has publicly hinted at the player’s reluctance to leave European football.
Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman and Brentford’s Ivan Toney are also reportedly in talks with Saudi clubs. Meanwhile, Joao Cancelo has recently completed a €25 million move to Al Hilal, further demonstrating Saudi Arabia’s financial clout in the transfer market.
The focus on attracting top talent is part of a broader strategy linked to Saudi Arabia’s successful bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The country’s ministry for tourism has reportedly reached out to Vinicius Junior’s representatives about the possibility of him promoting the tournament as an ambassador. This approach suggests that as the World Cup draws nearer, Saudi officials may intensify their efforts to bring players of Vinicius’ caliber to the country, potentially through transfer offers.
For now, however, the reports of a record-breaking bid for Vinicius Junior appear to be unfounded, and the player is expected to remain with Real Madrid for the foreseeable future.
Source: 90min.com
