💰 Saudi clubs admit: signing Vinicius Junior is a possibility | OneFootball

Ramón Planes, sporting director of Al Ittihad, has fueled the 'Vinicius Case'. The Spanish executive has not hesitated to stir up rumors placing Vinicius Júnior at the center of the ambitious Saudi Pro League project, confirming that the interest in the Brazilian is real and tangible. "Yes, I see it as a possibility that Vinicius could come to Arabia. It is feasible to have top-level players at their peak here," stated Planes, making it clear that the Arab country no longer settles for stars in the twilight of their careers.

This stance marks a paradigm shift in Saudi Arabia's recruitment strategy. While in previous years the focus was on veteran legends, the current intention is to attract footballers who, like Vinicius, lead the global scene in their prime. For the Saudi project, the incorporation of the Madridista "7" would not only be a top-tier sporting reinforcement but also a symbolic show of strength in promoting the 2034 World Cup, demonstrating their ability to compete head-to-head with the hegemony of major European clubs.

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Within Real Madrid, the news is received with a mix of caution and firmness. Although the club has always referred to the 1 billion euro release clause to shield their star, the external economic pressure is becoming hard to ignore. With a contract ending in 2027 and renewal negotiations under media scrutiny, the player's camp is observing how offers from the Middle East could make Vinicius the highest-paid athlete in history, surpassing any figures previously seen in professional football.

For his part, the player finds himself at a significant professional and personal crossroads. Despite his deep connection with the Santiago Bernabéu and his desire to continue making history in white, the constant episodes of media and social tension he experiences in Europe could influence his final decision. The possibility of becoming the face of an expanding league, away from the scrutiny he faces in Spain and with a contract that would secure the future of several generations, is a temptation that his inner circle is obliged to seriously consider.

The outcome of this potential transfer seems tied to the moves the white club makes in the upcoming 2025 transfer markets. While Real Madrid has no intention of selling their franchise player, the magnitude of the operation—which is rumored to reach record figures in terms of transfer—would force all parties to sit at the negotiating table. As Ramón Planes rightly points out, the scenario has changed: Arabia is no longer a golden retirement but a direct competitor capable of snatching European football's greatest assets.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.

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