Links between Saudi Arabia and Vinicius Junior this summer was a continuous story in the Spanish capital, and it was confirmed that there was an interest in making a deal from Al-Ahli. Director Khaled Al-Issa explained that they were in negotiations for the Brazilian.
Al-Issa explained on Kora Rotana, as published by El Chiringuito, that he intended to bring a star signing this summer, one of which was Vinicius. However, he said a change in the status of Saudi Pro League players has stopped any discussions.
Al-Ahli director Khaled Al-Issa has told Kora Rotana that he has tried to sign Vinicius Junior. #RealMadrid this summer pic.twitter.com/qqIQXEh3co
— Football España (@footballespana_) September 13, 2024
“There was a desire to bring a great winger, Vinicius, from Real Madrid, but during the negotiations something unexpected happened, which was the departure of the Saudi players to become professionals in accordance with the scholarship program, and the departure of the striker. Firas Al-Braikan was expected,” explained Al-Issa.
According to sources in Madrid, Vinicius has stopped any move because he does not want to move to the Middle East, although he has not closed the door to a move entirely.
It seems highly unlikely that Al-Ahli would have given up on a deal of such magnitude over such a relatively minor issue. There was talk of a billion euro contract for the Real Madrid star, and a fee of between 300-400 million euros for the Blancos.
It cannot be denied that the media attention towards Vinicius has become increasingly hostile in recent weeks. The Brazilian was heavily criticized by the Spanish media for not only his performances but also his comments in the media about Spain potentially losing the World Cup. Even in the club, his comments did not go down well.
