Spanish businessman Esteve Calzada, CEO of Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, has put an end to the speculation linking his club to Real Madrid's Brazilian star, Vinicius Junior, categorically denying any official talks to sign the player during the upcoming summer transfer window. Calzada's statement effectively halted a wave of speculation that had recently circulated in international sporting circles.
In a radio interview, Calzada stated clearly: “In our case, there are currently no talks with the player or his club .” With this statement, the Al-Hilal official denied reports linking the club to one of the world’s most promising football talents. However, he did not completely rule out Saudi football’s ambitions, indicating that there is a general strategic desire among Roshan League officials to attract international stars to enhance the league’s value and appeal.
General context: The transfer revolution in the Saudi League
This controversy arises within the context of the historic transformation the Saudi Professional League has undergone since the transfer of Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo to Al-Nassr in late 2012. This deal paved the way for a wave of mega-projects funded by the Public Investment Fund, with the arrival of superstars such as Neymar Jr. (to Al-Hilal), Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kanté (to Al-Ittihad), Sadio Mané, Riyad Mahrez, and others. These investments have reshaped the global football landscape, making the Saudi league a magnet for top-tier players, which explains the rumors surrounding players at the peak of their careers, such as Vinicius Junior.
The importance of the deal and its potential impact
Despite the current denials, the mere mention of Vinicius's name being linked to the Saudi league carries significant implications. Signing a 23-year-old player, at the peak of his career with a club the size of Real Madrid, would represent a qualitative leap, surpassing all previous transfers. Domestically , his presence would immensely strengthen Al-Hilal and elevate the level of competition, both technically and in terms of fan support, in the Saudi Professional League. Regionally , it would give Asian football an unprecedented boost in continental tournaments like the AFC Champions League. Internationally , it would send a powerful message that the Saudi league is not only attracting stars at the end of their careers, but has also become capable of competing with major European leagues for the best young talent in the world.
Calzada explained that the Roshan League adopts an open policy for recruiting international players, adding, "If Vinicius is available to leave, the league will make intensive efforts to bring him to the Saudi League." This statement keeps the door open for fans and confirms that the Vinicius saga, while currently on hold, could resurface in the future, remaining a hot topic of discussion and anticipation in the world of football transfers.
