Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to make a sensational move for Erling Haaland should Vinícius Júnior depart for Saudi Arabia this summer. Despite the Spanish giants publicly declaring the Brazilian winger is not for sale, persistent interest from Saudi clubs suggests a record-breaking deal could still materialise, which would prompt Madrid to turn their attention to the Manchester City striker.

Real Madrid are expected to pursue Manchester City striker Erling Haaland should Vinícius Júnior leave the Bernabéu for Saudi Arabia during the forthcoming transfer window.

Speculation has intensified in recent weeks regarding the future of the 24-year-old Brazilian forward, with Saudi Arabian clubs reportedly prepared to shatter transfer records in an attempt to prise him away from the Spanish capital.

Although Real Madrid remain adamant that Vinícius is not for sale, contract talks are yet to produce an agreement, leaving the door open to a possible exit. According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, the prospect of a move remains a genuine possibility.

Haaland Identified as Replacement

Should Vinícius choose to accept a lucrative offer from the Saudi Pro League, Real Madrid are poised to make Haaland their primary transfer target. The Norwegian striker has long been admired by the Madrid hierarchy, and his name is said to top the club’s shortlist in the event of Vinícius’s departure.

The report further claims that several executives and intermediaries, both in the Bundesliga and across Europe, are fully aware of Saudi Arabia’s continued pursuit of Vinícius. Confidence remains high within Saudi circles that a groundbreaking deal could yet be struck.

In the event that the Brazilian does leave, Real Madrid intend to go "all in" for Haaland, viewing him as a potential perfect partner for Kylian Mbappé, following suggestions that the Frenchman’s on-pitch chemistry with Vinícius has not flourished as hoped.

Haaland’s Long-Term City Commitment

Securing Haaland’s signature, however, would be a formidable challenge. The prolific forward recently extended his contract with Manchester City, tying him to the Premier League champions until 2034. As such, any negotiations would likely involve an astronomical transfer fee, with City determined to retain their talisman.

For the time being, the scenario remains purely hypothetical and would depend on several high-profile moves falling into place. What appears certain, however, is that Saudi Arabian clubs remain unwavering in their ambition to bring Vinícius to the Middle East.