Carlo Ancelotti responds to constant Vinicius Junior speculation | OneFootball

Carlo Ancelotti insists he's not worried about Vinicius Junior's long-term future at Real Madrid, but is "tired" of the speculation linking him with a move to Saudi Arabia.

The 24-year-old's rise to superstardom over the past couple of years now sees him regarded as one of the world's best forwards, frightening defences with his immense pace, fantastic dribbling ability and his positional versatility.

Vinicius controversially finished as runner-up to Rodri in last year's Ballon d'Or vote, and he's carried over the superb form that made him many people's favourites for the award into this season.

But even though Madrid have established themselves as the Kings of Europe in recent times – winning the Champions League five times over the past decade – reports have suggested that Vinicius could be lured away by the riches of Saudi Arabia.

A new contract offer from Real Madrid is understood to have been turned down – Vinicius himself has stressed that negotiations are ongoing and "God willing" a resolution will be found – and reports from leading Spanish publicaton MARCA state he's willing to hear what offers may be forthcoming from the Middle East.

With speculation rife that Vinicius could earn an incredible €1bn over the course of a five-year contract in Saudi, manager Ancelotti was asked in his latest press conference about whether he was worried about the ongoing saga.

Vinicius Junior's future is the talk of the town / Sports Press Photo/GettyImages

In true Ancelotti style, the Italian kept more than calm and downplayed the situation by insisting he's happy with what he's seeing from Vinicius day in, day out.

"Am I tired? Yes. Am I worried? No. I see him happy and we are happy with him. It's a topic that is talked about outside, not here," Ancelotti said.

"He doesn't either. Vinicius is very keen to do things well, like in Manchester and he will continue, because he is starting to have good physical form, after the injuries. I see him very motivated. Against City he was under a lot of pressure and he made the difference.

Ancelotti added that he's "not aware" of potential meddling from representatives of Vinicius, who will understandably be looking to engineer the best deal for their client. For now, the flying winger will be tasked with helping Madrid overcome Osasuna in La Liga, before the return leg of the Champions League knockout play-off tie with Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu.

As for Ancelotti, his contract at Real Madrid expires in June 2026, though there's been suggestions that he could be replaced in the dugout by former player Xabi Alonso next summer. On whether he could actually be the one to head for Saudi, he said: "Saudi Arabia's situation should not be surprising. They face the 2034 World Cup and are in a competitive moment, although less so than Europe, at the moment.

"But in the future, we'll see. Should I leave? Why not. If I want to continue in football after Madrid, which is the question, why not?"