Al Hilal respond to growing Vinicius Junior speculation | OneFootball

Club CEO shuts down Saudi links to Real Madrid star

Al Hilal respond to growing Vinicius Junior speculation

Al Hilal chief executive Esteve Calzada said the club are not in negotiations with Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior.

Saudi links grow around Vinicius

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior has been strongly linked with possible move to the Saudi Pro League, with reports suggesting Al Hilal as one of the clubs monitoring his situation.

The Brazilian forward is currently in contract renewal discussions with Real Madrid.

His deal runs until 30 June 2027 but no agreement has been reached yet which has fueled speculation about his long-term future.

With Saudi clubs continuing to attract major global stars, Vinicius has become one of the latest names connected with potential switch to the Middle East.

Al Hilal CEO: “There are no conversations”

Al Hilal CEO Esteve Calzada addressed the rumours directly in interview this week. He made it clear that the club is not currently negotiating with Vinicius.

He added that Saudi league officials have expressed general interest in bringing top players if they become available but insisted that Al Hilal are not in active talks with the Real Madrid winger.

Calzada noted that Omar Mugharbel CEO of the Saudi Pro League has often said the league would try to sign Vinicius if the opportunity arises.

Vinicius remains one of world football’s top stars

Vinicius has been one of the most important attackers in world football since joining Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018.

He played starring role in Madrid’s Champions League triumphs in 2022 & 2024 and was a key figure in both campaigns.

In 2024 he also won FIFA’s The Best award as the top player in the world.

This season, the Brazilian has scored eight goal and provided 11 assist in 33 match across all competitions underlining his continued impact.

His market value is estimated at around €150 million while his contract reportedly includes massive €1 billion release clause, designed to prevent unwanted departure.

Saudi spending keeps rumours alive

Saudi clubs have spent heavily in recent years bringing in names such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and previously Neymar.

Their financial strength has made even unlikely moves seem possible.

There have also been claims that Saudi sides have made extraordinary offers in the past.

Al Ittihad president Anmar Al Haili previously stated that Lionel Messi was offered €1.4 billion in 2023, though the Argentine turned it down.

Meanwhile Vinicius continues to be discussed at Flamengo where officials have spoken publicly about his contract situation in Madrid.

What happens next?

For now Vinicius remains focused on Real Madrid, with renewal talks ongoing.

While Al Hilal have denied any current negotiations, the Saudi Pro League’s ambition means speculation around elite players like Vinicius is unlikely to disappear soon.