Al-Ahli confirm summer attempt to sign €180 million-rated Real Madrid superstar | OneFootball

In a surprising revelation, Khaled Al-Issa, the director of Al-Ahli, has disclosed that the Saudi club made a significant effort to secure Vinicius Jr. from Real Madrid during the final weeks of the summer transfer window.

It must be noted that this attempt was one of the most talked-about rumours as the transfer window neared its end.

Al-Ahli, known for their ambitious plans, reportedly prepared a record-breaking offer to bring the Brazilian winger to their squad. The news of this bid sent shockwaves through the football world, even though the deal was never officially confirmed.

Until now, there had been speculation and whispers, but Al-Issa’s confirmation has shed light on the extent of their pursuit.

Al-Ahli’s ambition for Vinicius

According to Al-Issa, the club was determined to make Vinicius, whose current market valuation is €180 million, the highest-paid player in football history. This move would have been a landmark transfer, showcasing Al-Ahli’s commitment to attracting top talent.

Al-Ahli are quite serious about signing Vinicius Jr. (Photo by CESAR MANSO/AFP via Getty Images)

The Saudi investment fund, PIF, which has significant influence in the league, was also involved. Their aim was to make Vinicius a prominent ambassador for Saudi Arabia, with plans extending until the 2034 World Cup, which will be hosted in the country.

Al-Issa explained in an interview with Koora Rotana (h/t El Chiringuito TV) that while the club was eager to sign Vinicius, unexpected developments altered their strategy.

During the negotiation phase, Saudi players were enrolled in a professionalisation programme, which saw winger Al Braikan achieve professional status.

“We had the desire to bring in a great winger, Vinicius, but during the negotiations something unexpected happened,  the Saudi players went to professionalize according to the scholarship program.

“In this way, Al Braikan (winger) became a professional, so the priority became to sign a striker and we negotiated with Toney and Osimhen,” noted Al-Issa.

Despite this setback, it is anticipated that Saudi clubs will renew their efforts in the next transfer window. Vinicius remains a key target for Saudi football, and his potential move continues to be a topic of great interest.