Vinicius Jr. towards a departure? Discussions are progressing well with this surprise club

A major twist could be looming this summer in the career of Real Madrid’s electric winger, Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian star, who has dazzled fans with his pace and flair, is reportedly the subject of intense interest from an unexpected destination—Saudi Arabia. With an astronomical offer of €1 billion over five years on the table, questions about his future in the Spanish capital are beginning to take center stage.

The timing of this development is significant. Just days after Real Madrid’s embarrassing defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League, the pressure on the team and its key players has intensified. Vinicius, once heralded as the club’s golden boy, is now under scrutiny for his perceived lack of influence in crucial games.

Physical performance data from the Champions League this season paints a concerning picture. Vinicius ranks among the least mobile forwards, having averaged just 8.8 kilometers per game. Kylian Mbappé, his teammate, also features poorly in the same metric. With Rodrygo not far behind, Madrid’s once-feared attacking trio has come under fire for a visible drop in intensity and effectiveness.

The decline in Vinicius’s on-field impact is also reflected in his big-match performances. Despite his respectable tally of 19 goals and 14 assists across all competitions, critics argue that the Brazilian has not stepped up in key fixtures—particularly in the knockout rounds of European competition.

To make matters worse, this season has been tumultuous for Vinicius on and off the pitch. He’s had to deal with suspensions, media controversies, a disappointing Ballon d’Or campaign, and a shifting tactical environment under Ancelotti. These factors have created the perfect storm for speculation about a possible exit.

The Saudi offer, as outrageous as it may sound, is reportedly real. It includes a five-year deal that would make Vinicius one of the highest-paid athletes in the world. However, according to Manu Carreño of Cadena SER, the player isn’t entirely sold on the project—especially the contract length. The prospect of being tied to one club for five years in a league far removed from Europe’s top competitions appears to be a sticking point.

While the money is undoubtedly tempting, Vinicius is said to be thinking carefully about his legacy. At just 24 years old, he remains at the peak of his career and would likely prefer to compete at the highest level for a few more years before considering such a move.

In the meantime, negotiations for a contract extension with Real Madrid are reportedly progressing well. Carreño revealed that the winger’s agent was spotted leaving Madrid’s Valdebebas training facility earlier this week—a sign that serious discussions are ongoing.

Despite the external interest and internal doubts, Real Madrid appears confident of retaining their star. Sources within the club believe that Vinicius is “closer to renewing than leaving,” and they remain optimistic that a deal will be finalized before the summer transfer window opens.

It’s no secret that Madrid sees Vinicius as a central figure in their long-term project, especially as they prepare for life after Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. With Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham also expected to be part of the core squad next season, the club is keen on maintaining continuity among its next generation of stars.

Yet, Real Madrid’s ambition to stay dominant in Europe will hinge on more than just individual talent. Tactical cohesion, commitment, and mentality will be just as important, and that’s precisely where critics feel Vinicius has room to improve.

Fans have expressed mixed emotions. While many still believe in Vinicius’s potential, others argue that he needs a stronger attitude and consistency in big moments if he wants to be remembered alongside club legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Raúl.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian football continues to flex its financial muscle. Having already attracted names like Karim Benzema, Neymar, and Sadio Mané, they are now setting their sights on younger, marquee players who can elevate the league’s global profile even further.

Should Vinicius choose to make the move, it would mark a massive shift in the footballing landscape. However, it also risks pulling him away from the limelight of elite competition, potentially affecting his international career with Brazil.

The Seleção, undergoing a rebuild ahead of the 2026 World Cup, will likely depend on players performing at the highest levels in Europe. Playing in the Saudi Pro League could reduce Vinicius’s exposure to top-tier football, something that both the player and national team staff will surely consider.

For now, the ball remains in Vinicius’s court. With Real Madrid extending an olive branch for renewal and Saudi Arabia waiting with open arms and full coffers, the Brazilian has a major decision to make.

One thing is certain—whatever path he chooses, it will send ripples through the world of football. Whether he stays to write more history with Los Blancos or embarks on a new, lucrative chapter in the Middle East, the football world will be watching closely.