Al Ittihad's sporting director acknowledged that the Saudi league is prepared to sign top-level players following unresolved contract renewal talks between Vinícius Júnior and Real Madrid.
On 27 Dec 2025 GMT+7, transfer rumors surrounding Vinícius Júnior, Real Madrid's superstar, resurfaced after Ramón Planes, sporting director of Saudi Arabia's prominent club Al Ittihad, openly stated that seeing a world-class player like the Brazilian national star join the Saudi Pro League is not beyond reach.
The former senior Barcelona executive spoke on the Radioestadio Noche program on Onda Cero, admitting that Saudi Arabia is becoming a viable destination for top players still in their prime.
"Yes, I believe it is possible for a player like Vinícius to play in Saudi Arabia," said Planes. "Our league is developing, and there is increasing potential to see top players at their peak competing here."
Al Ittihad's sporting director further explained that the club's recruitment approach in the Saudi Pro League has clearly shifted recently. "Currently, the trend is to sign players who are at the right age for competitive football, not just those nearing the end of their careers as before."
These comments come at a sensitive time for Real Madrid, as the club is still negotiating a new contract with Vinícius. Reports indicate that disagreements over wages are the main obstacle, stalling progress in the renewal talks.
Although no signs of a fallout have emerged, the situation remains uncertain. The 24-year-old's current contract expires in 2027, meaning he will soon enter the final official year of his deal.
This condition naturally opens the door for outside clubs, especially financially strong teams from Saudi Arabia, to create disruption in the player market.
Despite Vinícius having clearly expressed his desire to continue with Real Madrid, the uncertainty surrounding his contract extension leaves a "small window" open for a potential transfer.
From Real Madrid's perspective, Vinícius remains an "untouchable" asset both tactically and in terms of the club's image. However, past experience shows that Saudi clubs never back down when they spot an opportunity amid contract tensions.