Erling Haaland Emerges as Real Madrid’s Top Target to Replace Vinícius Júnior
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has identified Erling Haaland as the club’s top transfer priority should Vinícius Júnior depart in the upcoming seasons, according to reports from Defensa Central.
The club views the Manchester City striker as a natural heir in its attacking line if Vinícius is sold either this summer or in the 2025/26 campaign. Sources in Spain suggest Haaland is open to joining Xabi Alonso’s project at the Santiago Bernabéu, making the operation a realistic, albeit ambitious, possibility.
While Real Madrid are also tracking other forwards, the Norwegian international remains the standout target. Internally, the plan would be to fund Haaland’s acquisition entirely through the proceeds of a potential Vinícius sale.
The Brazilian star, whose contract negotiations have stalled over a reported €30 million annual salary demand, is attracting serious interest from both Saudi Arabia and the Premier League. Saudi clubs are reportedly preparing a record-breaking €300 million bid, while Liverpool have emerged as a potential suitor at a significantly lower fee.
Although Vinícius has expressed a desire to remain in Madrid, the financial discrepancy between his demands and the club’s salary ceiling may force a reassessment. From a business perspective, selling him to Saudi Arabia would present a highly profitable outcome for Los Blancos.
On the Manchester City side, Haaland’s future remains secure on paper. The Premier League champions extended the striker’s contract until 2033, fully aware that top European clubs, including Madrid, would eventually circle. However, the Norwegian’s contract is believed to include a release clause that could allow him to explore a move if the right offer and project align.
With Kylian Mbappé already at the club and Vinícius potentially on the way out, the prospect of a Haaland–Mbappé partnership could redefine Madrid’s forward line for the next decade.
As the summer transfer window unfolds, Real Madrid’s strategy is clear: keep Vinícius Júnior if possible but if not, go all-in on one of world football’s most lethal finishers.
