"Saudi Arabia want players like Vinicius Junior at their peak"

Rumours linking Vinicius Jr with a move to Saudi Arabia appeared to have died down, but stalled contract renewal talks have reignited speculation. This has been further fuelled by Al-Ittihad sporting director Ramon Planes openly admitting his team's interest in the Real Madrid winger.

In an interview with 'Marca', the former Barcelona and Betis executive explained that Saudi Arabian football is looking for talent at their peak, rather than well-known players nearing the end of their careers. This strategy differs from that of other leagues. His team, the Saudi champions led by Karim Benzema, would welcome the Brazilian with open arms.

"Vinicius? I wouldn't rule it out. I think he fits the idea and the plan to be one of the strongest leagues in the world. The World Cup was a good test for the Saudi League. Within that plan, to bring in players at an important stage of their career, Vinicius could be a part of it. He has everything in his favour."

"If you analyse the profile of the players who are coming in, including those in our team, we made a lot of moves last summer and were active in the market. Players like Steven Bergwijn, Aouar, Moussa Diaby are coming in... Players aged 25, 26, 27, at a good stage of their careers. Plus the young players we're investing in, like Unai Hernández or Mario Mitaj," he explained.

Ramon Planes reiterated that he sees Vinicius as a potential player in the Saudi Pro League: "I'm not ruling it out at all. I think he fits within the idea and the plan to be one of the strongest leagues in the world. And Vinicius certainly has all the attributes to join this league."