Saudi club director comments on possible move for Real Madrid megastar – ‘I don’t rule it out at all’ | OneFootball

Vinicius Jr. has not yet renewed his contract with Real Madrid, which runs until 2027. Talks have been held over an extension, but an agreement is yet to be finalised.

The Brazilian superstar’s demands for a salary same as fellow superstar Kylian Mbappe are understood to be a roadblock in negotiations, especially considering his dip in form over the last season.

In the background of this situation is the growing interest from Saudi Arabia, who are targeting the 25-year-old winger.

According to recent reports, Saudi clubs are prepared to offer the player €1 billion over five seasons, while also paying Real Madrid €350 million for the transfer.

Al-Ittihad director comments on Vinicius interest

Speaking to MARCA (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Ramon Planes, sporting director of Saudi Arabian champions Al Ittihad, addressed the speculation surrounding Vinicius and a potential move to the Middle East.

“I don’t rule it out. I think it’s part of the idea and plan to be one of the most powerful leagues in the world. The World Cup has been a good test for the Saudi League,” said Planes.

Vinicius remains a target for Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

“Vinicius could be part of that plan, to allow players to come at an important moment in their careers. He has everything going for him,” he added.

Continuing, the former Barcelona director remarked: “If you analyse the profile of the player who’s coming, even within our team, last summer we made a lot of moves and were market shakers.

“Players like Steven Bergwijn, Aouar, Moussa Diaby are coming. Players who are 25, 26, 27 years old, in good moments of their careers. Plus the youngsters we’re banking on, like Unai Hernández or Mario Mitaj.”

As such, Planes refused to rule out the possibility of Vinicius joining a Saudi Arabian club in the near future.

“I don’t rule it out at all. I think it fits into the idea and plan of being one of the most powerful leagues in the world. And Vinicius surely has all the conditions to join this league,” he concluded.