Saudi Pro League sides set to make ambitious move to lure Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr – Reports

A number of Saudi Pro League (SPL) clubs are reportedly aiming to attract Vinicius Jr. away from Real Madrid in the near future.

According to Fichajes.net, the SPL has identified the Brazilian as a transfer target following Neymar Jr’s recent injury. They are eager to sign the 23-year-old player to enhance their reputation in the footballing world.

Al-Ahli, currently ranked fifth in the 2023-24 league standings with 19 points from nine games, are said to be the frontrunners in the race to sign Vinicius. They made significant signings, including Riyad Mahrez and Roberto Firmino, earlier this year by spending close to €200 million on their squad.

However, Al-Ahli could face competition from several undisclosed Saudi clubs in the future. These clubs are expected to make substantial bids to persuade Real Madrid to part ways with their forward next summer.

Vinicius, who recently extended his contract until June 2028 at the Santiago Bernabeu, currently has a release clause of €1 billion.

As a graduate of the Flamengo academy, the 24-cap Brazil international is considered one of the world’s best inverted wingers. He has played a crucial role in helping Los Blancos win a total of nine trophies so far, including two La Liga titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy.

Since joining Los Blancos in 2018, Vinicius has scored 62 goals and provided 65 assists in 232 appearances across all competitions. He currently averages a goal involvement every 124 minutes.

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham praised by media after England’s 3-1 victory against Italy

Following England’s 3-1 win over Gli Azzurri at Wembley, Italian news website Tuttosport.com praised Real Madrid’s summer signing Jude Bellingham by comparing him to an extraterrestrial. They wrote (h/t Sport Bible):

“A Martian at Wembley. It’s Jude Bellingham, who confirms once again this season that he has what it takes to become the next phenomenon in world football. Real Madrid’s midfielder was too strong, omnipresent, and decisive in the actions leading to the first two English goals, against an Italy side that did not disgrace itself.”

Bellingham, who joined Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund in a deal worth up to €134 million in July, delivered an outstanding performance against Italy on Tuesday (October 17). He won the penalty kick for Harry Kane’s first goal and also created Marcus Rashford’s second-half goal.

Meanwhile, the 20-year-old has scored 10 goals and provided three assists in 10 games across all competitions this season for the Santiago Bernabeu outfit.