Al Hilal CEO says they can sign Real Madrid megastar if they want to – ‘We can consider any player’ | OneFootball

As Al Hilal prepare to face Real Madrid in the Club World Cup, the club’s CEO, Esteve Calzada, made a noteworthy appearance on Cadena SER’s El Larguero, where he addressed growing speculation about a possible move for Vinicius Jr.

The Brazilian forward, currently one of the biggest stars in world football, has been loosely linked with Saudi clubs in recent months, but Calzada was quick to set the record straight.

No direct contact yet

Speaking on the topic, Calzada firmly denied any direct negotiations between Al Hilal and Vinicius.

He pointed out how misinformation often spreads quickly when high-profile matches approach, and compared the current situation to his early years at Manchester City.

“Everything written about this game is filled with lies. It reminds me of my early days at City, where people would say a player had offers from us or PSG, but it was all agent talk,” he said.

Vinicius Jr.s’ links with Saudi Arabia have not died. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“In the case of Vinicius, there has been no contact with us directly. The La Liga CEO did mention talks in an interview, but I don’t know anything more. Agents often use these rumours to push new contracts or transfers.”

Saudi league dreaming big

Despite denying immediate interest, Calzada made it clear that Saudi Arabian clubs, including Al Hilal, are building a long-term project. Their ambition is not limited to veteran players but could include top stars like Vinicius in the future.

“The moment we’re in allows us to consider any player, and I wouldn’t be surprised by any player coming here, including Vinicius,” he said confidently.

“When we want a player, we don’t think about whether he wants to come or not. We go all in because we believe in the project, not just the money. Cristiano Ronaldo coming surprised many, but nothing should surprise us now.”

He added that younger players, like Vinicius, are usually harder to convince, but that does not mean it is impossible.

“We can consider any player coming and offer him a good project. Young players are harder for us because they’re more reluctant.”

With time, infrastructure, and the growing appeal of the Saudi Pro League, Al Hilal and other clubs are determined to make bold moves.