The Saudi Professional League is once again trying to make a monumental bid for Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr., with Al-Ahli leading the charge. That means rivals Al-Nassr, home of Cristiano Ronaldo, will also be looking to add fresh strength to their squad.
According to sources, Luis Diaz has emerged as the most likely alternative, having emerged as one of the best European wingers this season, at Liverpool. The Colombian has scored 15 goals and provided five assists this season for the Premier League leaders, achieving the best results of his career in all competitions. Luis Diaz was signed from Porto in January 2022 for £37.5 million, with a five-year contract that is expected to continue for the next two seasons. In modern football, the fate of players is often decided before the final year of their contract to avoid leaving for nothing, and this situation could lead to a possible transfer of Diaz to Saudi Arabia. Especially considering the financial capacity of Arab clubs.
This context could see Liverpool's board face a lucrative offer from a Saudi Arabian club for their Colombian star. Al-Nassr have already made a similar move, signing Luis Diaz's compatriot Jhon Duran from Aston Villa in January for £64m. The decision could largely depend on Diaz, as financial means are not an issue in the Saudi league.
Al-Ahly are ready to spend €350m on Vinicius, surpassing the record fee paid by PSG for Neymar in 2017. Although Vinicius scored regularly during the 2023/24 season and helped Real Madrid win La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, he failed to become the first Brazilian hero to win the Ballon d'Or since Kaká. Real Madrid boycotted the gala ceremony where Manchester City's Rodri was declared the winner. Vinicius has thrown
