A frozen deal

What seemed like a done deal back in May is now on hold. According to Brazilian outlets like ESPN and TNT Sports, it was Vinícius Junior’s agents who blocked any progress in the contract extension with Real Madrid. The reason is significant: the Brazilian is demanding a contract worth 23 million fixed plus 1.17 million in bonuses, a figure that would put him on the same salary tier as Kylian Mbappé. The club, however, is only willing to offer 23 million without variables, a proposal the player finds insufficient.

The financial gap has created a tense atmosphere. At Valdebebas they consider him a cornerstone of the project, but they are not willing to cave in so quickly on a negotiation that could set a precedent for the rest of the locker room.

The salary battle

Currently, Vinícius earns 20 million per season. The club’s proposal represents a raise, but it still falls short of the player’s expectations. His representatives believe it makes no sense to sign for three more years under those terms and prefer to wait. According to ESPN, the strategy is to hold out until 2026, when the Brazilian will only have one year left on his deal.

Real Madrid wants to avoid that scenario. Without an agreement, the risk of losing him for free in 2027 is real, and the board may be forced to consider a sale in order to recoup part of their investment.

Saudi Arabia lurking

Although Saudi Arabia’s interest in Vinícius has cooled in recent months, the market remains alert to any opening. The massive offers haven’t disappeared and could resurface if the renewal continues to stall. Vinícius himself isn’t considering a move now, but he knows the future of Saudi football could shift any decision.

For now, the outcome remains uncertain.