Vinicius Junior’s Contract Negotiations Intensify Amid Coaching Changes

Vinicius Junior’s current contract with Real Madrid is set to run until 2027. Given his prominence in Ballon d’Or discussions throughout 2024, the club is understandably hesitant to allow this valuable player to enter the final year of his contract without a renewal.

Real Madrid is determined to avoid the scenario of Vinicius leaving as a free agent, and a lucrative transfer is on the table if new terms cannot be agreed upon. The 25-year-old winger continues to generate considerable interest from the Saudi Pro League, with reports indicating that offers have been made from the Middle East, some valued at an astonishing €1 billion (£867 million/$1.2 billion) across a long-term contract.

Such substantial figures are difficult to overlook, and they certainly catch attention. At one point, it seemed likely that transfer discussions would commence, especially in light of a strained relationship at the Bernabeu under former manager Xabi Alonso. ESPN has noted that the prospect of a contract renewal would have been “non-existent” had Alonso remained at the helm.

Alonso was dismissed less than a day after the team suffered a defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, despite Vinicius scoring a remarkable solo goal during the match, which did not alleviate his dissatisfaction.

Interim manager Álvaro Arbeloa has quickly lauded Vinicius, signaling a gradual mending of relationships. Reports from ESPN suggest that Real Madrid plans to reinitiate contract discussions soon.

However, it has been reported that a significant gap remains between Vinicius’ wage expectations and what the club is willing to offer. Real Madrid has proposed a deal worth approximately €20 million per year (£17 million/$23 million), but negotiations have stalled as Vinicius has requested an additional €10 million in performance-related bonuses.

Further discussions were initially scheduled to take place after the 2026 World Cup, but with Alonso no longer involved, these meetings have been expedited. Vinicius’ representatives are skeptical about Real’s ability to secure the necessary funds for an agreement.

The club believes that contract terms akin to those of Kylian Mbappé, which include various bonuses, could be established. ESPN has reported that Alonso’s management style negatively impacted the negotiations; however, Vinicius is prepared to wait for an opportunity to exit should the situation not improve. Tensions between him and Alonso peaked when he learned he would be benched for a FIFA Club World Cup semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2025.

The situation reached a critical point during a Clasico match against Barcelona at Santiago Bernabéu in October, where Vinicius publicly expressed his discontent when substituted in the second half. Although he later apologized for his actions, the rift had already been created.

Despite their attempts to maintain a cordial relationship, ESPN indicates that it remained strictly professional. With Alonso’s departure, Real Madrid is now in the market for a new permanent head coach, who will likely prioritize ensuring Vinicius remains a key component of the team’s long-term plans.

As discussions regarding his contract extension commence, alleviating any off-field uncertainties could positively impact Vinicius’ performance, which has been lacking this season. Amid various distractions, including the upcoming World Cup, he has managed to record just six goals and seven assists in 28 appearances across all competitions.