Real Madrid and PSG explore mutual transfer favors involving Rodrygo and Vitinha
European transfer market negotiations could see an unusual exchange of favors between two of the continent’s football powerhouses. Real Madrid are reportedly open to facilitating Paris Saint-Germain’s pursuit of Brazilian forward Rodrygo Goes, while expecting the French champions to return the favor in a future move for Vitinha.
PSG Eye Rodrygo as Potential Barcola Replacement
According to Defensa Central, PSG’s interest in Rodrygo stems from uncertainty surrounding Bradley Barcola. The 21-year-old French winger has attracted strong attention from Liverpool, who see him as a backup option should they fail to land Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. Barcola is currently valued at €100 million (~R$632 million) by PSG.
If Barcola departs, Rodrygo is considered a prime replacement due to his versatility, Champions League experience, and ability to play across the forward line. However, PSG are cautious the deal hinges entirely on Liverpool’s next moves in the market.
Real Madrid’s Priority: Bringing Vitinha to the Bernabéu
For Real Madrid, the favor in question would involve PSG softening their stance on Vitinha. The 25-year-old Portuguese midfielder has been outstanding for the Parisians, showcasing composure in possession, intelligent positioning, and leadership qualities reminiscent of Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić in their prime.
Currently valued at €80 million (~R$500 million), Vitinha’s price could rise sharply after a strong 2024/25 campaign. He is also on the shortlist for the 2025 FIFA World Player of the Year award, underlining his status as one of Europe’s elite midfielders.
Sources close to the player suggest he is open to a move to Spain, seeing Real Madrid as a natural step forward in his career, provided the transfer does not strain relations with PSG.
Who Would Gain More from the Deal?
From a purely sporting perspective, Real Madrid could emerge as the bigger winners in a mutual favor agreement. Under Xabi Alonso this season, Rodrygo’s role has diminished, and his form has been inconsistent since January. Vitinha, meanwhile, has been a standout performer, consistently ranking among the top 30 players in the world.
If executed, the arrangement would highlight the increasingly strategic nature of elite European transfers where direct swaps are rare, but favor trading can shape the market in subtle ways.
