Report: Vinicius Junior's contract clash with Real Madrid intensifies

Despite earlier hopes of a new deal, negotiations have reportedly stalled, casting doubt over the Brazilian's future at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Vinicius, 25, entered the 2024-25 season as a cornerstone of Real Madrid's attack, but his role was somewhat overshadowed by the arrival of Kylian Mbappe. Initially, reports in spring 2025 suggested that the two parties had agreed on a contract extension to keep Vinicius at the club until 2030, as noted by MARCA.

However, those plans unraveled when Vinicius' representatives demanded a salary matching or exceeding Mbappe's reported 30 million euros per season, a figure Real Madrid have firmly rejected, according to El Chiringuito.

"They want to renew him, but they won't pay the amounts he's asking for," stated a report from El Chiringuito, highlighting Real Madrid's stance that Vinicius' demands could disrupt their wage structure. The club have instead offered a fixed 20 million euros per season, which Vinicius' camp deemed insufficient, per ESPN.

With tensions rising, both sides have agreed to pause talks until the end of the 2025-26 season, according to Cadena SER. This decision shifts focus to on-pitch performances but leaves Real Madrid vulnerable, as Vinicius' current contract runs only until 2027. If no agreement is reached by next summer, the winger could run down his deal, potentially leaving for free, a scenario the club are reportedly prepared to face rather than meet his demands.

Vinicius has publicly expressed his desire to stay, saying after a match against RB Salzburg, "I want to stay for many years to come." Yet, his camp's push for a higher salary, coupled with interest from Saudi Pro League clubs offering a staggering 1 billion euros package, has added pressure to the standoff.

Real Madrid's management, led by president Florentino Perez, have shown ruthlessness in the past with high-profile players, and some reports suggest they could consider selling Vinicius if a suitable offer arrives.

The club's concerns about his recent inconsistent form and reported tensions with Mbappe have only complicated matters, with new manager Xabi Alonso demanding greater commitment from the winger, as noted by beIN SPORTS.

For now, the focus remains on the pitch, but the unresolved contract saga looms large. With Vinicius' market value at 170 million euros, according to Transfermarkt, Real Madrid face a pivotal decision: meet his demands or risk losing one of football's brightest talents.