Saudi Pro League Eyes Vinicius Junior as Top Target Despite Real Madrid’s Stance

• Vinicius Junior hailed as one of the best forwards in world football
• Brazilian finished runner-up to Rodri in the 2024 Ballon d’Or vote but won FIFA Best Men’s Player in December
• Saudi Arabia’s PIF maintains interest in signing the Real Madrid superstar

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is reportedly reigniting its interest in Real Madrid’s Brazilian star Vinicius Junior. The 24-year-old forward, widely regarded as one of the best players in the world, has already garnered accolades, including the Best FIFA Men’s Player award in 2024, following his runner-up finish to Rodri in the Ballon d’Or voting.

Vinicius, who played a pivotal role in Real Madrid’s 15th Champions League triumph and 36th La Liga title last season, had been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League during the summer transfer window. Al Ahli director Khaled Al Issa later admitted that the club had targeted Vinicius to replace Allan Saint-Maximin, but they pivoted to Brentford striker Ivan Toney after “something unexpected happened.”

According to ESPN, PIF renewed contact with Vinicius’ representatives in December to emphasize that he remains a top priority for Saudi Arabia’s ambitious football project.

Ancelotti Firm on Vinicius’ Future

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti dismissed the rumors of a possible exit, reaffirming the Brazilian’s commitment to the club. “Speculation doesn’t affect him. He’s here, he wants to be here, and he’s focused on doing his best for Real Madrid,” Ancelotti stated in December.

Vinicius himself has expressed a desire to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu, highlighting his long-term commitment to the club during his FIFA award acceptance speech. Real Madrid views the forward as a cornerstone of their future, alongside stars like Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham.

A Stellar Year for Vinicius

Vinicius has had a remarkable run, winning the La Liga Player of the Month in November and earning the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Golden Ball and Player of the Tournament awards in December. His contributions were instrumental in Madrid’s Club World Cup victory over Pachuca.

Saudi Pro League’s Global Ambitions

Despite their failure to land Vinicius last summer, the Saudi Pro League continues to strengthen its roster of marquee players. With names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and potentially Mohamed Salah—who could join on a free transfer from Liverpool this summer—the league remains determined to secure the world’s top talents.

For now, Vinicius seems set to continue his illustrious career in Madrid, but Saudi Arabia’s football revolution isn’t showing signs of slowing down.