Saudi Arabia are planning for life after Cristiano Ronaldo as they have set their sights on signing Vinicius Jr from Real Madrid.
Reports indicate that they are ready to lure him to the country with an offer of €1 billion over 5 years, which amounts to €200 million annually.
Saudi Arabia Keen On Making Vinicius Jr Face Of The Saudi Pro League
They aim to secure the services of Vinicius Jr this summer, in order for the Brazil international to become the face of the Saudi Pro League.
Vinicius Jr, who has been tipped to win the 2024 Ballon d’or award, is one player currently grabbing the headlines in the round leather game called football.
The Brazilian has been breathtaking in recent years, exuding his brilliance in the attacking department of Real Madrid.
According to reports, Saudi Arabia are offering Vinicius Jr the opportunity to return to Europe before he turns 30.
They are also willing to secure him any job he wants in Saudi football after retirement, alongside making him an ambassador for the 2034 World Cup, which they are bidding to host.
Is Cristiano Ronaldo The Face Of The Saudi Pro League?
Ronaldo is currently the face of the Saudi Pro League, but his contract at Saudi Arabian giants Al Nassr expires in June 2025.
The future of Cristiano Ronaldo is unknown, as it is uncertain if the Portuguese will call time on his career when his deal with the Knights of Najd expires.
Ronaldo might also opt to join boyhood club Sporting Lisbon in the summer of 2025, as it has been rumored that he could retire at the club.
Cristiano Ronaldo has brought much visibility to the Saudi Pro League and his presence in the division has also resulted in the influx of other star players to the country.
Karim Benzema, Neymar Jr, N’golo Kante, and Sadio Mane amongst others are legendary names, who are also plying their trade in the Pro League.
Mohamed Salah To Saudi Arabia?
Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has also been courted by Saudi Arabian giants Al Ittihad in recent years and an offer of €175 million was tabled to secure his services, however, the bid was rejected.
All indications suggest Salah will remain with the Anfield side for the 2024/25 season, although his contract at the Merseyside-based club comes to an end in June 2025.
It will be interesting to see who officials handling the Saudi Pro League will acquire as they aim to make the division one of the best and most followed in the world.
Recall in June 2023, 4 of the leading Saudi Arabian clubs – Al Nassr, Al Hilal, Al Ittihad and Al Ahli were taken over by the country’s Public Investment Fund.
That move has aided these clubs financially, as it enables them to flex their muscle in the transfer market.
Vinicius Jr
Meanwhile, Vinicius Jr is preparing for the new season with Real Madrid and he was involved in their preseason fixtures against Chelsea and Barcelona on August 4, 2024, and August 7, 2024, respectively.
The 24-year-old is expected to be in action for Los Blancos on August 14, 2024, when Carlo Ancelotti’s side face Europa League champions in the UEFA Super Cup.
Vinicius Jr Net Worth, Salary, And Market Value?
Additionally, Vinicius Jr’s net worth is estimated to be within the region of €30 million – €55 million, and he earns over €300,000 per week at Real Madrid.
His market value has been pegged at €180 million by Transfermkt.
Vinicius Jr Career Stats
Anyway, he has scored 97 goals and provided 80 assists in 333 club appearances across all competitions.
Internationally, Vinicius has made 30 appearances for Brazil, scoring 3 goals and providing 5 assists across all competitions.
Vinicius Jr’s Achievements
He has won several trophies thus far in his career, including; 3 La Liga titles, 2 UEFA Champions Leagues, and 2 FIFA Club World Cups.
