In a potential bombshell for the upcoming transfer window, Real Madrid are reportedly preparing to make Manchester City striker Erling Haaland their top priority — but only if star forward Vinícius Júnior leaves the Santiago Bernabéu amid growing interest from Saudi Arabia.
This revelation came during a press conference where the club’s stance became clear: while they remain committed to keeping Vinícius, they are also readying themselves for a contingency plan that could shake the European transfer market.
Saudi Interest in Vinícius Raises Eyebrows
Vinícius Júnior has emerged as a target for several ambitious clubs in the Saudi Pro League, who are reportedly ready to offer him a massive contract that could rival the biggest salaries in football. While the Brazilian winger remains a crucial figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s setup, sources close to the club admit they are not entirely dismissing the possibility of a mega-money offer tempting the player.
“Vinícius is a player we believe in deeply,” said a club spokesperson. “But in football, anything can happen — especially when the financial figures involved are on another level.”
Haaland: Madrid’s Long-Term Dream
Should Vinícius depart, Real Madrid are ready to go all-in on Erling Haaland. The Norwegian goal-machine has long been admired by Florentino Pérez and the club’s recruitment team. With Kylian Mbappé’s arrival all but confirmed for this summer, adding Haaland to the mix would form a generational frontline alongside Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo.
The club reportedly see Haaland as the perfect long-term replacement for Karim Benzema, and with financial room opened by a potential Vinícius sale, a bid for the Man City star could finally materialize.
“We have great respect for Erling,” a Madrid official said during the press conference. “He’s one of the best in the world, and someone any top club would want if the opportunity presents itself.”
City Bracing for Madrid Move?
While Manchester City are under no pressure to sell, and Haaland has never publicly expressed a desire to leave, the persistent Real Madrid links have never fully gone away. The Spanish giants are believed to be monitoring the release clause in Haaland’s contract, which becomes more accessible starting in the summer of 2025 — though a blockbuster move could come sooner if the conditions are right.
A Summer of Big Decisions
For now, the ball remains in Vinícius’s court. If he chooses to stay, Real Madrid will continue building around him, Mbappé, and Bellingham. But if Saudi money lures him away, it could set off a chain reaction that brings one of football’s deadliest strikers to La Liga.
One thing is certain — the summer transfer window could be one of the most dramatic in recent memory for Real Madrid fans.