The contract saga between Real Madrid and Vinicius Júnior has taken a new turn. Despite being the reigning FIFA ‘The Best’ winner, the Brazilian star has reportedly turned down the club’s latest renewal offer, seeking a salary that reflects his status as the world’s premier player.
The €20m Stumbling Block
According to The Athletic’s Mario Cortegana, Real Madrid presented a proposal with an annual salary of €20 million. However, Vinicius and his representatives deemed the offer insufficient.
After winning the FIFA The Best award in 2024, Vini’s current earnings rose to approximately €18 million due to performance-based bonuses. The striker believes that a long-term extension should represent a more significant jump from his current pay scale, given his pivotal role in the club’s recent success.
From Boos to Brilliance: The Bernabéu Tension
The negotiations are unfolding against a backdrop of mixed emotions at the Santiago Bernabéu. Just last week, during a frustrating performance against Levante, the home crowd surprisingly targeted Vinicius with whistles.
The reaction from the stands reportedly left the squad “disappointed and surprised,” according to Tiempo de Juego. However, the atmosphere shifted rapidly following Tuesday’s Champions League victory over Monaco. A stellar performance from the number 7 helped mend the rift with the fans and reaffirmed his importance to Álvaro Arbeloa’s new project.
“I Want to Stay”
Despite the financial stalemate, Vinicius Jr. was vocal about his intentions in a post-match interview with TNT Sports. With his current contract running until June 2027, there is no immediate rush to sell.
“I want to stay at Real Madrid for a long time,” Vini Jr. stated. “Regarding my renewal? We are calm. I trust the President, and he trusts me.”
With Florentino Pérez personally involved in the talks, both parties remain optimistic that a middle ground will be found, ensuring the “King of Madrid” stays at the revamped Bernabéu for his prime years.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
