- Real Madrid are considering a major move for Erling Haaland amid Saudi Arabia’s push to sign Vinícius Júnior
- Vinícius has already rejected a five-year offer worth €1 billion, but talks with Saudi clubs are ongoing
- Haaland recently extended his Manchester City contract until 2034 with no release clause included
Key Takeaways:
Real Madrid are considering a serious offensive for Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, who could assume the role of central forward—originally intended for Kylian Mbappé. The reason behind this potential shift is the growing interest from Saudi Arabia in Vinícius Júnior.
In recent years, the rising influence and financial strength of Saudi Arabian clubs have shaken the football world, with numerous European and global stars heading to the region. Real Madrid’s Brazilian winger Vinícius Júnior appears to be among the priority targets for Saudi clubs, who are aiming to complete one of the most high-profile deals in the sport’s history. The Brazilian star has already turned down an extremely generous offer, reportedly worth around €1 billion over five years. According to sources close to the situation, the length of the contract was the main sticking point.
🚨 Several agents connected to Real Madrid are aware that a summer move for Vinicius Jr. to Saudi Arabia is not entirely off the table.
On the off chance that he decides to leave, Erling Haaland would be Madrid’s absolute top target, with him playing as striker and Mbappe back… pic.twitter.com/j9ZBKp9U73
— Football Talk (@FootballTalkHQ) April 15, 2025
Despite the initial refusal, journalist Florian Plettenberg reports that the transfer is far from off the table. Saudi representatives remain determined and are working on a deal of “unprecedented scale” which could set new benchmarks in terms of transfer fees and wages.
Should Vinícius ultimately accept the offer, Real Madrid have a ready alternative plan—the club will push for the signing of Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker has long been on the radar of the Los Blancos board, but until now a move seemed unnecessary due to the presence of both Vinícius and Mbappé.
If Vinícius departs, Haaland would take over the central role in attack, allowing Mbappé to return to his favoured position on the flank. Alongside Rodrygo, this would form one of the most dangerous attacking trios in modern football.
However, signing Haaland will be no easy task. At the start of 2025, the Norwegian renewed his contract with Manchester City until 2034, and reports indicate that the new deal does not include a release clause. This means Real Madrid would have to enter direct negotiations with the English club, who are unlikely to part ways with one of their key figures without tough negotiations and a significant financial package.