Vinicius Junior’s future at Real Madrid has been thrown into uncertainty after negotiations over a new contract stalled, with reports in Spain claiming the forward has requested a package matching the club-record wages once earned by Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Brazilian international’s current deal runs until 2027 and earlier this year he indicated that discussions over improved terms were under way.
However, the latest round of talks is understood to have broken down, with the player’s representatives seeking a salary of around €30m a year. Such a figure has only previously been reached by Ronaldo during his peak years at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Madrid are said to have offered €20m annually, in line with the earnings of Kylian Mbappé, their current highest-paid player.
Club officials are wary of setting a precedent that could trigger further demands across the squad, mindful of Barcelona’s well-documented financial difficulties after years of soaring wages.
Beyond the financial implications, questions have also been raised over Vinicius’s recent form. Xabi Alonso, who will begin his first season as Madrid manager this month, is reported to have considered leaving the winger out of the starting XI for the Club World Cup semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain before injuries forced a reshuffle.
While Alonso is unlikely to sideline the 25-year-old at the start of the new La Liga season, there are suggestions within the club that Vinicius must raise his level to maintain an undisputed role in the side. Saudi Arabian clubs are monitoring the situation and could revive interest should Madrid decide to cash in.
Vinicius will have an early chance to reassert his value when Madrid open their domestic campaign against Osasuna on 19 August, with his performances potentially shaping the next phase of contract discussions.
