Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti responds as Vinicius Jr linked with big money Saudi Arabia move

Carlo Ancelotti has denied suggestions Vinicius Jr could leave Real Madrid for Saudi Arabia.

Reports have claimed the 24-year-old would be in line to earn an annual salary of around £298.9m should he agree a move to the centrally-run Saudi Pro League.

The Brazil international has established himself as one of the world’s leading forwards since joining Madrid from Flamengo as a teenager in 2018, winning the Champions League twice and three LaLiga titles.

Karim Benzema left the European champions for Al-Ittihad last summer, while former Los Blancos captain Nacho Fernandez joined Al Qadsiah upon the expiration of his contract in Madrid last month.

Still, Ancelotti is confident the financial rewards on offer do not pose a threat to Madrid’s attempts to keep the Brazilian.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup clash with Atalanta in Warsaw, Ancelotti said: “We have a squad and other good players have arrived.

“It's [the Saudi Pro League] not a threat, we have a lot of quality. I'm sure we can do great things. Vinicius? There is nothing. It's market speculation."

Madrid have this summer added Kylian Mbappe to their star-studded squad and the striker is in line to make his debut on Wednesday night.

“He can start like everyone else here,” added Ancelotti.

“Everyone can play even though we haven't had much time. He's adapting very well, he's focused, he's showing extraordinary quality."