Saudi Arabia Transfer Chief Issues Bold Warning to Real Madrid: Vinicius Junior Move Still on the Table

"Don't dismiss the possibility entirely," represents the worrying signal for Real Madrid regarding a potential Saudi Pro League pursuit of star winger Vinícius Júnior.

Viní Jr. has been consistently connected with a transfer to Saudi Arabia over recent months. However, while such rumors have notably diminished lately, Al Ittihad sporting director Ramón Planes declines to eliminate the prospect for the future.

In essence, attracting players like Viní Jr. during their peak years and eliminating the perception that Saudi Arabia serves as a final destination before retirement constitutes the league's primary objective.

"I wouldn't dismiss it," Planes, previously Barcelona's technical secretary, informed MARCA.

"I believe it's integral to the vision and strategy of becoming among the world's most influential leagues. The World Cup served as an excellent examination for the Saudi league. As part of that strategy, enabling players to arrive at crucial stages of their careers, Vinícius could be considered.

"He possesses all favorable elements. When examining the type of player who arrives, including within our squad, last summer we executed numerous transactions and became market influencers. Players such as Steven Bergwijn, [Houssem] Aouar, Moussa Diaby are joining. Athletes who are 25, 26, 27 years old, experiencing prime periods in their careers. Additionally, the young talents we're investing in, including Unai Hernández or Mario Mitaj.

"I wouldn't dismiss it whatsoever…and Vinícius undoubtedly possesses all the qualifications to enter this league."

During the height of speculation connecting Viní Jr. with Saudi Arabia last season, discussions emerged regarding a substantial contract offer worth over 10 times his present Real Madrid wages—potentially reaching €1 billion ($1.17 billion) across five years.

Al Ittihad currently holds Saudi Arabia's championship title, having regained it from Al Hilal in 2024–25, supplementing their previous victory in 2022–23.