Transfer Update: Vinícius Júnior’s Contract Stalemate and Premier League Pursuits

Vinícius Júnior has communicated to Real Madrid that he does not wish to extend his contract at this time, largely due to a strained relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso, as reported by The Athletic.

The 25-year-old player shared this sentiment during a discussion with club president Florentino Perez in late October. Sources have previously indicated to ESPN that the dynamic between the coach and player has deteriorated, leading to stalled contract negotiations. Currently, Júnior’s contract is set to expire in June 2027, with an annual salary of approximately €17 million net, including bonuses.

Meanwhile, Manchester United is actively considering a move for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, as detailed by the Manchester Evening News. The club reportedly holds significant interest in acquiring the 25-year-old and is willing to offer him his preferred squad number, 24, which is presently assigned to goalkeeper André Onana, currently on loan at Trabzonspor. Semenyo has made an impressive impact this season, recording six goals and three assists in the Premier League, drawing attention from other Premier League contenders, including Liverpool. His contract includes a £60 million release clause that activates in January.

In other transfer developments, Bayern Munich is in discussions with center-back Dayot Upamecano regarding a new contract, amid interest from several European clubs, according to Bild. Chelsea is among the latest teams monitoring his situation, while Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Internazionale are also keen. Should negotiations fail, Bayern may pursue alternatives such as Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck or Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi.

Additionally, Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García is being pursued by Aston Villa and Brighton & Hove Albion, as reported by Football Insider. Both clubs have reportedly initiated contact for a potential loan agreement involving the 21-year-old, who has made ten first-team appearances this season. Madrid is yet to decide whether to part ways with García, citing concerns over attacking depth.

Inter Milan may experience challenges in acquiring Roma midfielder Manu Koné, as noted by Fabrizio Romano. The 24-year-old is deemed essential by manager Gian Piero Gasperini, and Roma has no intentions of releasing him. Consequently, Inter may need to explore different options in January, especially as Roma currently leads the Serie A standings.

Liverpool is reportedly ready to make a £25 million offer for AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit, as stated by Football Insider. The Premier League champions are among several clubs contemplating a move for the 19-year-old in January, facing competition from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Newcastle United, and Borussia Dortmund. Smit, an Under-21 international for the Netherlands, has contributed to four goals in 12 Eredivisie matches this season.

In other transfer news, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Barcelona are monitoring Nottingham Forest defender Murillo, while Arsenal and Manchester United are interested in Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay. Newcastle is preparing to sign a striker in January, anticipating the departure of Yoane Wissa to the Africa Cup of Nations. Additionally, Manchester United plans to offer midfielder Casemiro a new contract with a reduced salary, and several clubs, including Fiorentina and Real Betis, are eyeing Botafogo defender David Ricardo, with potential bids around €8 million on the horizon. Everton, meanwhile, has no intentions of selling midfielder James Garner in January despite interest from Nottingham Forest.