Vinícius Júnior's current situation at Real Madrid has taken an unexpected turn during preseason. Despite being one of the team's key players last season, his continuity with the Madrid club now seems uncertain. According to recent reports from Cadena SER, the Brazilian winger has rejected the latest contract renewal offer from the club's management.

A matter of salary?

The rejection by Vinícius's camp reportedly stems from financial disagreements. The 24-year-old, represented by his agent, considers the proposal insufficient and is allegedly demanding a salary on par with Kylian Mbappé, who recently joined the Madrid squad.

After an outstanding season—22 goals and 19 assists in 58 official matches—Vinícius believes his performance warrants a place among the team's highest earners. However, the club appears unwilling to match the French star's salary, which has led to tensions in the negotiation process.

Real Madrid prepares for a new era under Xabi Alonso

Meanwhile, the team now coached by Xabi Alonso has its roadmap set for the start of the 2025–26 campaign. The players are scheduled to return to training on August 4, and the first and only preseason friendly will take place on August 12 against WSG Tirol, an Austrian Bundesliga side, at the Tivoli Stadion in Innsbruck.

This match will serve as a warm-up ahead of the official LaLiga EA Sports debut on August 19 at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Real Madrid will face Osasuna. The club had requested a postponement due to its participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, but the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) denied the appeal.

Just days before the start of a new season, Vinícius's situation remains a pressing question that could shape the club’s near future. A potential departure would not only impact the team’s sporting project but also disrupt the dressing room dynamics of a squad built around young talent and stars like the Brazilian forward.

Will Vinícius Júnior continue to shine at the Bernabéu, or will he walk away in search of new challenges? For now, silence reigns at the club, but the outcome seems to be approaching fast.