Real Madrid are weighing up a potential move for Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, but only if Vinicius Junior decides to make a switch to Saudi Arabia later this year.
Haaland has emerged as Los Blancos’ backup plan, amid growing uncertainty surrounding Vinicius’ future and continued links to a move to the Middle East.
Negotiations are still ongoing between the Brazilian star and the LaLiga champions over a new contract.
Although Vinicius is contracted to Madrid until 2027, the club is eager to extend his stay further in the near future.
Madrid are keen to avoid a scenario where the winger edges closer to a potential free exit by 2026.
However, a key obstacle remains — Vinicius reportedly wants a pay rise that would place him ahead of top earners Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham.
Such a demand could disrupt the club’s carefully maintained wage policy — something president Florentino Perez is not willing to compromise on.
As a result, the Saudi Arabia option remains on the table, with reports claiming his camp held talks with intermediaries in September, reconnected in December, and even met in person with Vinicius and his team in Prague this February.