Rabat—Saudi Arabia are reportedly preparing an unprecedented move for Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior, with plans to submit a formal offer next summer that could reshape the global transfer market.
According to English journalist Ben Jacobs, the Saudi Pro League remains determined to land one of football’s biggest stars and is willing to present a contract proposal valued at up to €1 billion. In that scenario, Al Ahli are said to be the club best positioned to push the deal forward.
If completed, the move would be one of the most significant transfers in football history, both financially and symbolically. Saudi football has made no secret of its ambition to attract elite players in their prime, and Vinícius is viewed as the kind of statement signing capable of transforming the league’s global perception.
As revealed last year, Saudi dealmakers eyeing up Vinicius Junior as one of their main targets for summer 2026.
Real still want the Brazilian to extend but talks put on hold when Xabi Alonso was at the club.
Al-Ahli the main Saudi club discussed for Vini Jr with a €1bn… pic.twitter.com/t6eMFrxGT5
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) January 22, 2026
Real Madrid stance and contract situation
At Real Madrid, the priority remains retaining one of the club’s most important players. However, reports indicate that contract renewal talks are currently on hold, following changes within the club’s coaching structure. Negotiations are expected to resume in the coming weeks.
Vinícius himself sought to play down speculation after being named MVP in Real Madrid’s Champions League win over Monaco, stressing his desire to remain at the club.
Despite those public comments, reports suggest that representatives close to the player have explored the Saudi option for over a year, aware of the scale of the financial proposal being discussed.
From Real Madrid’s perspective, the club’s position is reportedly firm. If Vinícius ever decides he wants to leave, the club would only consider selling him for a record-breaking transfer fee and before the end of his contract. Letting him stay until his contract ends, in 2027, and leave for free is something the Merengues are not willing to allow.