The directors of the Saudi Pro League are considering making a record offer to Real Madrid for superstar Vinicius, according to media in the Middle East, bTV reported.
It is no secret that the Arabian Peninsula wants to attract the 25-year-old Brazilian international, whose negotiations for a new contract with Real Madrid are currently hitting a rock. The winger is considered one of the best players in world football and according to TalkSPORT, Saudi agents are keen to persuade him to join the top league in the Middle East.
The Offer
It is claimed that the directors are ready to make a £302m bid for Real Madrid, which would break the previous record for the most expensive transfer, held by another Brazilian player, Neymar. In 2017 he joined PSG from Barcelona for £222m.
This sum even surpasses Al Hilal's failed bid to sign Kylian Mbappe from PSG in 2023, when the Parisians received an offer of £257m.
It is also claimed that the sheikhs are taking a patient approach to Vinicius in order to bring the Brazilian to Saudi Arabia, even if he signs a new contract with Real Madrid. He is in talks over new terms, with his current deal expiring in the summer of 2027. Al Ahly have been mentioned as a potential destination for him should such a transfer take place, with the Public Investment Fund and the Saudi Ministry of Sports believing that the club "owe" its next big star.
£330 per minute
Vinicius has repeatedly stated his desire to stay at Real Madrid. However, the former Flamengo player is said to have received a written non-binding offer for a five-year contract worth £866m plus bonuses.
This salary would make the striker one of the highest-paid athletes in the world, earning £475,000 a day and £3.3m a week. Just for reference, the highest-paid player in the Premier League, Arlington Haaland, earns five times less - £525,000 a week at Manchester City.
If we break down the numbers further, this means Vinicius will earn almost £20,000 an hour, or £330 a minute.
The Brazilian scored 22 goals and made 19 assists for Real Madrid in 58 games last season. According to media reports in the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi officials want to bring in the "Seleção" international player no later than the 2027/28 season, believing that he will still be in the prime of his life.
The Saudi Pro League can already boast some of the best players in the world. Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante and Ruben Neves already play there. The directors' goal is to turn the championship into a dominant global force.