'%20x='0'%20y='0'%20height='100%25'%20width='100%25'%20%0A%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20xlink%3Ahref='data:image/jpg;base64,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'%3E%3C/image%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Real Madrid have assembled an enviable attack line for the upcoming season. However, reports have emerged that claim the Spanish giants were close to losing one of their all-important stars.
According to the Athletic, Vinicius Junior was approached by the Saudi Pro League this summer to join the project as one of its frontmen. Despite the aggressive efforts, the Brazilian winger has opted to remain with Los Blancos.
A delegation from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, acting on behalf of the Ministry of Sport, is said to have approached Vinicius' representatives with a proposal. The Brazilian international was presented with an opportunity to become the face of the Pro League, especially as Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 World Cup.
However, the 24-year-old, who has three years left on his contract with Real Madrid, has his sights set on continuing his dominance in Europe.
Despite the initial rejection, Saudi Arabia is expected to maintain their interest in Vinicius, particularly if his contract situation at Real Madrid remains unresolved. The Brazilian's release clause of €1 billion could be a significant deterrent.
Last summer, teams from Saudi Arabia spent close to €900 million to boost the profile of their footballing league, luring several high-profile players to the Middle East. However, this transfer window has seen a significant decrease in spending, with only around €200 million invested so far.
The most expensive deal to date has been the €60 million acquisition of Moussa Diaby from Aston Villa by Al-Ittihad. But if they secure Vinicius' signature, those numbers will be eclipsed in a jiffy.
What will be Vinicius Jr's role in the upcoming season for Real Madrid?
Vinicius Jr is untouchable at the moment, particularly with the anticipated arrival of Kylian Mbappé this summer. Although both are particularly known to operate on the left, their flexibility would allow plenty of options upfront.
The Brazilian scored 24 goals and provided 11 assists in 39 appearances across all competitions in the 2023-24 season. But those numbers too fail to define his contribution on the way to Madrid's European double. He established himself as a constant menace down the flank and broke down opposition defenses at will.
Since signing for Los Blancos in 2018, the former Flamengo star has scored 93 goals in 263 appearances for the club in all competitions.
