Real Madrid are bracing for a historic battle to keep Vinicius Júnior, as Saudi Arabian giants Al-Ahli reportedly prepare a staggering €1 billion total package to lure the Brazilian star to the Middle East in 2026.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, the Saudi Pro League has been layng the groundwork for over a year to secure the 25-year-old’s signature. The proposed deal would see Vinicius earn an astronomical €200 million per season over a five-year contract, making it the most lucrative individual agreement in sporting history.
The Record-Breaking Transfer Fee
Beyond the player’s salary, Al-Ahli is prepared to shatter the world transfer record currently held by Neymar (€222m). Reports suggest a formal bid to Real Madrid could range between €300 million and €350 million. While Los Blancos have a €1 billion release clause in Vini’s current contract, the scale of the Saudi offer is expected to test the club’s resolve as the player enters the final year of his deal in 2026.
The “Arbeloa Effect” and Contract Renewal
Negotiations for a contract extension at the Bernabéu had previously stalled, reportedly due to a strained relationship between Vinicius and former manager Xabi Alonso. However, with Alonso’s recent departure and the arrival of Álvaro Arbeloa, the path for a renewal has been cleared.
Real Madrid’s board views Vinicius as the “untouchable” face of the club’s future and intends to restart renewal talks in the coming months to stave off the Saudi approach. The club aims to extend his stay well beyond the current June 2027 expiry.
Vini’s Stance: Making History in Madrid
Despite the life-changing numbers on the table, Vinicius Júnior has consistently voiced his desire to remain in the Spanish capital. Having already rejected previous approaches, the Brazilian remains focused on his legacy at Real Madrid. However, the sheer scale of Al-Ahli’s “billion-euro project” ensures that this will remain the dominant transfer saga of the next 18 months.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
