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Saudi Pro League CEO says Vinicius Junior move from Real Madrid is a matter of time

14. January 2025
(foto: Getty Images)
The Saudi Pro League is making headlines once again, with reports emerging that Vinicius Junior could be the next big-name star to head to the Middle East.

The league is said to be preparing a staggering €1 billion (£854m/$1.1bn) offer for the Real Madrid forward, who has become one of the most sought-after talents in world football.

Despite his young age, Vinicius has already been linked to a move to Saudi Arabia, where global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have made headlines with high-profile transfers. According to Saudi Pro League CEO Omar Mugharbel, securing Vinicius’s signature is only a matter of time. In an interview with Marca, Mugharbel stated, "We don't have dreams, it's a matter of time and negotiation."

Mugharbel went on to explain how the league’s strategy has evolved in recent years, with a focus on bringing in elite-level players to raise the profile of the competition. He said, "Foreign players have always been part of Saudi teams. In recent years, the number of possible foreign players in teams has changed. This season we have included the number of eight plus two others under 21 years of age. What has changed massively, especially in the last two years, has been the quality of the players who come. Benzema, among others, create a bigger impact, both nationally and internationally."

The Saudi Pro League’s ambitions go beyond dominating Asian football, as Mugharbel outlined plans to compete with the world’s best leagues. He added, "We are the number one league in Asia, but we want to be part of the top 10 in the world. Right now I can't tell you where we are. We have to wait until the end of the season."

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly close to agreeing a contract extension with Al-Nassr, further emphasizing the league’s growing financial muscle and ability to attract top-tier players.

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