Vinicius Jr to Saudi Arabia still alive as Al-Hilal CEO opens up on hopes of landing Real Madrid icon

Madrid superstar Vinicius has been linked with a potential move to Saudi Arabian heavyweights Al-Hilal for some time. The club's CEO, Esteve Calzada, refuted all the claims about any direct negotiations with the 24-year-old, although he did admit that they can convince any player, including Vini, to join them in the future.

Vinicius' contract at Madrid expires in 2027, but reports suggest the Brazilian is close to renewing with Los Blancos until 2030, which will see him earn around €100 million (£85m/$115m) in the next five years. Vini is set to pledge his loyalty with the Merengues, despite receiving a reported €1 billion (£852m/$1.155bn) offer from Al-Hilal.

Appearing in an interview on El Larguero, Calzada expressed his confidence in signing any player, including Vinicius, even though there haven't been any contacts with the former Flamengo prodigy. He said: “In the case of Vinicius, there has been no contact with us directly. The La Liga CEO did mention talks in an interview, but I don’t know anything more. Agents often use these rumours to push new contracts or transfers.

“The moment we’re in allows us to consider any player, and I wouldn’t be surprised by any player coming here, including Vinicius. When we want a player, we don’t think about whether he wants to come or not. We go all in because we believe in the project, not just the money. Cristiano Ronaldo coming surprised many, but nothing should surprise us now.”

The winger will next be seen in action on Wednesday, when Xabi Alonso's side kick off their Club World Cup campaign against the same team Vini has been linked with, Al-Hilal. It is likely that his extension with Madrid will be officially announced in the coming months.