Carlo Ancelotti has stated he has “never spoken” to Vinicius Junior about interest in the Real Madrid forward from Saudi Arabia.
The 24-year-old was linked with a move abroad during the summer transfer window and The Athletic reported last month that his representatives held talks over a possible move to the Saudi Pro League (SPL).
Although talks did not initially progress as a deal was not considered to be possible at that moment, according to a person with knowledge of the situation, who has been kept anonymous to protect relationships, the process remains ongoing.
Sources with knowledge of the situation suggested Vinicius Jr could earn more than €1billion ($1.1bn; £856million) with the move, which would involve five years as a player and also work as an ambassador for the Gulf country, with a special focus on it hosting the 2034 men’s World Cup — although a SPL source denied figures this high were on the table.
Madrid do not want to sell Vincius Jr, whose release clause is €1bn.
Speaking ahead of Madrid’s clash against Real Sociedad this Saturday in La Liga, Ancelotti insisted that he isn’t concerned about Vinicius Jr being distracted with talk about his long-term future.
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“I don’t know if this offer has come to him or not,” Ancelotti said. “I speak daily with him and with everyone, and we have never spoken about this subject. He really likes playing football, so anything that can happen outside is not going to make him lose his idea of playing football.
“He’s not at his best, but he’s still very important for us, with assists. He hasn’t scored as usual, but we’re not in a hurry, because the team has scored and he’s been important.
“The last concern for me is Vinicius’ condition, he always works well and gives everything he can. It’s just a matter of time before he gets to his best.”
Vinicius Jr has played five games across all competitions this season, registering one goal and three assists.
He is under contract at Madrid until 2027 after signing an extension in 2022.
Ancelotti, meanwhile, also confirmed that midfielders Jude Bellingham and Aurelien Tchouameni have returned to training but will not play against Sociedad at the weekend.
“It’s a bit early (for them),” Ancelotti added. “They only did a small part of the session with the group yesterday. Let’s see in the next few days if they are available for Tuesday (against Stuttgart).”
(Diego Souto/Getty Images)
