Vinicius Junior (foto: Getty Images)
Vinicius Junior has turned down what could have been the most lucrative contract in football history, rejecting a five-season offer from Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli.
The Saudi Arabian Investment Fund (PIF) reportedly proposed a deal worth over 1 billion euros, including salary, bonuses, and other income, to lure the Brazilian star away from Real Madrid. However, Vinicius has opted to stay with the Spanish giants.
According to The Athletic, the offer aimed to make Vinicius one of the highest-paid athletes in the world as part of Saudi Arabia's ambitious plan to fill their league with top-tier talent ahead of their bid to host the 2034 World Cup. Despite the eye-watering figures involved, Vinicius remains committed to Los Blancos.
Real Madrid, upon learning of the Saudi interest, reportedly gave a firm response: they will not entertain any negotiations for Vinicius. The club's stance is reinforced by the player's termination clause, set at an astronomical 1 billion euros, a sum even the deep-pocketed Saudi investors are unlikely to meet.
Globoesporte also reported on the offer but noted that Vinicius has not made any official statement on the matter, possibly waiting for a formal, written proposal to consider. However, sources close to the player indicate that he remains focused on his future with Real Madrid.
Last October, Vinicius extended his contract with Real Madrid until June 30, 2027, a deal that included the hefty termination clause designed to deter such advances from other clubs. "I am very happy to renew my contract. It's a dream for me," Vinicius said at the time, expressing his commitment to the club.
Reports from ESPN revealed that the PIF and Vinicius's representatives discussed a salary of 382.5 million dollars (around 348 million euros) per season. Despite the lucrative offer, both Vinicius and Real Madrid have made it clear that the Brazilian's future remains firmly in Spain, at least for the foreseeable future.