Vinícius Júnior Declines Contract Renewal as Transfer Rumors Intensify

Vinícius Júnior has communicated to Real Madrid that he does not wish to renew his contract at this time, citing a strained relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso, according to The Athletic. The 25-year-old Brazilian forward reportedly conveyed this message during a conversation with club president Florentino Perez in late October. Sources have indicated that the relationship between player and coach has soured, contributing to stalled contract negotiations. Júnior’s current contract extends until June 2027, with a net annual salary of approximately €17 million, including bonuses.

In other transfer news, Manchester United is reportedly considering a move for AFC Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, as noted by the Manchester Evening News. The Red Devils are said to be keen on acquiring the 25-year-old and are willing to assign him his preferred squad number, No. 24, which is currently held by goalkeeper André Onana, who is on loan at Trabzonspor. Semenyo has made an impact this season, scoring six goals and providing three assists in the Premier League, attracting interest from multiple clubs, including Liverpool. His contract contains a £60 million release clause that will be activated in January.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich is in discussions with center-back Dayot Upamecano about a new contract amidst interest from several European clubs, as reported by Bild. Chelsea is among the clubs monitoring Upamecano’s situation, alongside Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Internazionale. Should negotiations falter, Bayern may explore options such as Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck or Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi.

Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García has drawn attention from both Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion, according to Football Insider. Both Premier League teams have made inquiries about a potential loan for the 21-year-old, who has appeared ten times for Los Blancos this season. The club has yet to decide on his future, considering his value for attacking depth.

Inter Milan may face challenges in their pursuit of Roma midfielder Manu Koné, as Fabrizio Romano reports. The 24-year-old is considered vital by manager Gian Piero Gasperini, and Roma has no intentions of allowing him to leave Stadio Olimpico. With Roma leading Serie A, Inter might need to consider alternative options in January.

In further developments, Liverpool will require a £25 million bid to secure AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, as reported by Football Insider. The Premier League champions are eyeing the 19-year-old, who has contributed to four goals in 12 Eredivisie matches this season, although they may face competition from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Newcastle United, and Borussia Dortmund for his signature.

Additionally, Liverpool remains committed to manager Arne Slot despite recent performance issues, according to Fabrizio Romano. Chelsea, Arsenal, and Barcelona have expressed interest in Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, while Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay. Newcastle is preparing to acquire a striker in January due to Yoane Wissa’s expected participation in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Manchester United is also considering offering midfielder Casemiro a new contract with a reduced salary. Several clubs, including Fiorentina and Real Betis, are showing interest in Botafogo defender David Ricardo, potentially leading to a bid around €8 million. Despite interest from Nottingham Forest, Everton has no plans to part ways with midfielder James Garner in January. Bundesliga teams are looking into Verona right-back Rafik Belghali, and multiple Premier League clubs are tracking 17-year-old Swansea City youth midfielder Harlan Perry.