Madrid’s Bold Pivot: Could Haaland Replace Vinícius, Then Sell the Brazilian For a Big Payday?

Overview

Vinícius Júnior, Real Madrid’s star winger, is widely tipped to move to the Saudi Pro League next summer. He has not signed a new contract, with his current deal due to run for two more years. The arrival of Xabi Alonso as head coach has altered the dynamic, and the Brazilian has been left on the bench in several matches, signaling he isn’t guaranteed a starter every game.

The player’s representative, Frederico Pena, has met with Madrid’s CEO Florentino Pérez and vice-president José Ángel Sánchez to discuss his contractual situation. Madrid’s stance appears to be that the latest offer remains on the table, while renewal talks were paused for the Club World Cup window.

Saudi interest and potential consequences

Saudi Pro League officials have been pursuing Vinícius for nearly two years and reportedly offered a substantial contract to lure him to the Middle East. For now, the Brazil international wants to stay at the Bernabéu and continue shaping his legacy in Madrid, though if the club does not meet his financial demands—similar to Mbappé’s—he could explore other paths, including a move that could reunite him with Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia.

CaughtOffside has suggested Madrid are already planning for the upcoming transfer window, aiming to recruit a midfielder and a central defender, while monitoring Ibrahima Konaté from Liverpool amid talk of Antonio Rüdiger’s contract status.

The report also notes that Al-Ahli’s interest in Vinícius has entered a serious negotiation phase, with Madrid facing the possibility of selling if the winger rejects Madrid’s terms.

Haaland as a potential game-changer

Madrid are said to be prepared to demand around €250 million if Vinícius leaves, with Erling Haaland identified as a priority target to spearhead the attack. Haaland’s long-term deal with Manchester City runs to 2034, yet Madrid believe a deal could be struck if Vinícius departs. Barcelona, under Joan Laporta, has also shown continued interest in the Norwegian star. Haaland’s lucrative extension at City keeps him firmly tied to the Etihad, complicating any potential move.

Meanwhile, Barcelona’s interest persists as the club seeks a long-term focal point in attack. Madrid’s strategy remains to pursue top targets while navigating a delicate balance between current squad needs and future value.

Additionally, Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia has initiated talks with Real Madrid about signing Vinícius for around £300 million, a move Madrid could pursue if the Brazilian rejects the club’s offer. Vinícius joined Madrid in 2018 from Flamengo and is valued around €200 million, with a contract set to run until 2027.