Vinicius Jr’s billion-dollar Saudi dilemma: Brazilian is their dream signing

Saudi Arabia has succeeded in keeping Cristiano Ronaldo for another two years after he agreed to a contract extension at Al Nassr. However, the contract situation of 25-year-old Real Madrid Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr. has put Saudi Arabia on a high-alert for a potential world-record transfer.

The Saudis are prepared to spend more than €350 million for their dream signing, who has been their top target for over a year now. Though the player has consistently stated his desire to continue in Europe and remain at the world’s best club, his contract extension remains incomplete.

Astronomical offer

His current contract runs until 2027, and there is a sense of calm around the club according to numerous reports. The transfer window is still long, but the money on offer is simply astronomical. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has reportedly put €1 billion ($1.16 billion) on the table for a five-year deal, numbers that would make any player in a dilemma.

If Madrid lower their demands or if Vinicius grows impatient with contract negotiations, other European clubs might enter the picture. However, realistically, who can compete with those Saudi figures?

The most intriguing aspect of this entire saga is how the Saudis are approaching it. They’re not rushing. They have maintained contact with his representatives intermittently since last year, clearly keeping the door open. Whenever he’s ready, he can walk through it.

They’re not expecting him to move this summer, but they are playing the long game. They understand he’s at the peak of his career at Madrid, but they also recognise that a €1 billion salary offer changes everything, especially considering he has already achieved so much in Europe.

Comes down to player's choice

The speculation will continue as long as the contract extension remains unsigned. Even if it is signed, Saudi Arabia will hoping that their mammoth offer will be taken at some point. It’s not that he’s earning peanuts at Real Madrid, he’s easily one of the world’s highest paid players. However, nobody can match Saudi Arabia’s offer.

Ultimately, it comes down to the player’s preference regarding what he wants to do with his career. It all depends on his ambition.