I’m feeling more assured,” said Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid, addressing the speculation about a potential $1 billion transfer to Saudi Arabia.

Vinicius Junior is currently the focus of a staggering €350 million (£296 million/$391 million) offer from the Saudi Pro League, which the 24-year-old has not outright dismissed, raising concerns among the Santiago Bernabeu management. The Brazilian has had an exceptional 2024, potentially leading to his first Ballon d’Or, and significant financial offers may follow if he chooses to leave Spain.

Vinicius’ representatives have informed Real Madrid that he is not prepared to renew his contract, which is set to expire in 2027, as he needs time to consider his future. According to ESPN, the winger plans to wait until the end of the season before deciding whether to accept the Saudi offer, which would make him the highest-paid athlete globally.

The plan for Vinicius is for him to play for Al-Ahli, which finished third in the Saudi Pro League last season, and to act as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia leading up to the 2034 World Cup. Although his release clause is set at an astonishing €1 billion (£846 million/$1.1 billion), there is optimism that Real Madrid might be open to negotiating a lower fee in 2025.Vinicius Junior’s potential move to the Saudi Pro League has become a major talking point, as a record-breaking offer of €350 million has reportedly been made to lure the Brazilian star away from Real Madrid. Despite his outstanding performances in 2024, which could lead to a Ballon d’Or win, the 24-year-old has not immediately dismissed the lucrative offer, creating anxiety within the Santiago Bernabeu.

Vinicius’ contract with Real Madrid runs until 2027, but his representatives have informed the club that he will not rush into extending his deal. He intends to assess his options at the end of the season, with the Saudi offer remaining a significant factor. If Vinicius were to accept, he would join Al-Ahli, and also serve as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia in the lead-up to the 2034 World Cup.

Although Vinicius’ release clause is set at €1 billion, there is speculation that Real Madrid could be persuaded to negotiate a lower transfer fee by 2025. This situation leaves Real Madrid in a delicate position as they face the possibility of losing one of their most valuable players to the rapidly growing Saudi league.