Vinicius Junior's Real Madrid Departure Gains Momentum as Exit Speculation Intensifies
Ramón Planes, the sporting director at Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad, believes there's a "genuine chance" that Vinicius Junior could join the Saudi Pro League if contract talks with Real Madrid break down.
The Brazilian winger has appeared below his usual standards during Xabi Alonso's inaugural campaign at Real Madrid, unable to replicate the consistent excellence he displayed under Carlo Ancelotti—performances that established him among the world's elite players. With under two years remaining on his deal and contract discussions stalled, his future at the Bernabéu remains uncertain.
The Saudi Pro League has become the most probable destination for Vinicius Jr. should he depart Real Madrid, and Planes acknowledged this scenario could materialize.
"The possibility that players of Vinicius's caliber could be here [Saudi Pro League], I view it as a genuine chance, honestly, yes," Planes told Onda Cero. "I won't discuss financial specifics, but I do consider it a realistic possibility because there's an initiative to develop an outstanding league competition.
"The approach is evolving [in the Saudi Pro League] the new strategy focuses on recruiting players who are still in their peak years, not just those nearing retirement. So I emphasize, it's achievable to have elite players in their prime competing here in [Saudi] Arabia."
Planes has previously commented on Vinicius Jr.'s potential transfer to Saudi Arabia, though there's widespread belief that Real Madrid wish to retain the two-time Champions League champion despite complications in negotiations.
President Perez Eager for Vinicius Jr to Remain
Recently, a report from MARCA Radio revealed that Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez refuses to let Vinicius Jr. leave the club "under any conditions."
However, for this to occur, some form of agreement regarding the winger's salary expectations will likely be necessary. So far, Real Madrid have been reluctant to satisfy the 25-year-old's substantial financial requests, leading him to suspend negotiations. Despite this, Pérez reportedly remains optimistic that a resolution will be found.
Should no agreement be reached in the coming six months, Real Madrid may need to contemplate selling Vinicius Jr. to prevent him from departing as a free agent in the summer of 2027.
The dynamic between Vinicius Jr. and Alonso represents another significant aspect of this situation. Tensions have been visible between them following the player's frustrated reaction to being substituted, and subsequent public comments haven't helped ease the situation. However, a recent public display of unity between the two indicates they may be working toward reconciliation—though what happens privately remains unclear.