Ex-LaLiga bigwig tips Vinicius to ditch Real Madrid for Saudi Arabia

Vinicius Junior’s future at Real Madrid remains uncertain as contract talks continue to stall with less than two years left on his current deal.

The situation has sparked growing speculation over a potential move away from the Santiago Bernabéu, with Saudi Arabia emerging as a serious long-term option.

Vinicius is approaching a pivotal moment in his Real Madrid career, with negotiations over a contract extension yet to reach an agreement.

The lack of progress has inevitably opened the door to interest from elsewhere, and Saudi Arabian clubs are already positioning themselves should the Brazilian decide to leave Spain.

With their financial power, Saudi clubs would be capable of making Vinicius one of the highest-paid players in world football. Plans to lure elite talent to the Middle East have been developing for some time, and the 24-year-old fits the profile of the new generation of stars they are targeting.

While many top European clubs would also line up for his signature, Saudi Arabia’s ability to offer unprecedented wages makes them a particularly strong contender if his Madrid future collapses.

Al-Ittihad sporting director Ramon Planes, formerly of Barcelona and Real Betis, believes a move to Saudi Arabia is a realistic possibility for a player of Vinicius’ stature. “

Yes, I see it as a possibility that players like Vinicius could be here in Saudi Arabia,” Planes said, highlighting the rapid development of the league.

He stressed that the Saudi Pro League is no longer focused on signing players at the end of their careers. “I see an evolution of the championship and it is feasible to have players of the highest level and at their best here,” he explained. “The trend is already to incorporate players at a very good footballing age.”

Planes also refused to dismiss the idea of Saudi clubs one day competing in Europe’s elite competitions. “I wouldn’t rule it out at all,” he added. “Sport is globalising.”