What Options Does Vinícius Have as His Real Madrid Contract Nears Its End?
Vinícius Júnior’s contract is entering a decisive phase, and uncomfortable questions are beginning to surface at Real Madrid. Renew, wait, or listen to offers — the future is now in play.
The talent remains unquestioned — the context less so
One goal, two assists, seven chances created and 19 progressive carries. Vinícius Júnior’s performance in Real Madrid’s 6–1 demolition of AS Monaco in the UEFA Champions League was a reminder of why, as Álvaro Arbeloa put it, “he’s the most dangerous player on the pitch.”
The issue is that this version has appeared too rarely this season. Before Tuesday night, the Brazilian had scored just once in his previous 19 appearances, a drought stretching back to October and completely out of step with his status.
A season below his own standards
On paper, Vinícius has five goals and five assists in 20 LaLiga matches, modest numbers for one of the world’s elite players. Under Xabi Alonso, he even lost his status as an undisputed starter, spending several matches on the bench despite being fit and available.
His reaction after being substituted in October’s Clásico marked a turning point. That episode accelerated internal tensions and became one of the catalysts behind Alonso’s departure last week.
Whistles, pressure and a ticking contract
On Saturday, the Santiago Bernabéu made its frustration clear. Vinícius was the target of the loudest whistles from a fanbase shaken by recent defeats and an unstable project.
“The last few days have been very difficult for me,” Vinícius admitted. “I’m always in the spotlight, and I want it to be for what I do on the pitch, not for things happening off it.”
With his contract running until June 2027, time is becoming a factor. Sources close to the club say his strained relationship with Alonso seriously complicated renewal talks — something that could now change under Arbeloa.
Option 1: Renew and remain a Madrid cornerstone
Vinícius enjoys life at Real Madrid, and his camp fully understands the sporting and commercial value of staying at one of football’s biggest institutions. The desire to remain is real — the numbers are the sticking point.
His net salary is around €17 million per year, a figure his entourage believes no longer reflects his importance, especially when compared to Kylian Mbappé, whose overall package — including bonuses — is significantly higher.
Madrid’s last offer stood at roughly €20 million annually, which Vinícius’ side deemed insufficient, pushing instead for a total package close to €30 million. Talks have been frozen for months, but Alonso’s exit could reopen the door.
Option 2: Run down the contract
Mbappé’s path — leaving PSG on a free transfer in 2024 — inevitably comes up in conversations. If Vinícius sees out his deal, he could enter 2027 as a free agent at 27, with elite pedigree and total freedom to choose his next destination.
But that scenario raises a crucial question: would Florentino Pérez ever allow it? History suggests otherwise. Previous standoffs with icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos ended on the club’s terms.
If Madrid sense a genuine intention to leave for free, they would almost certainly force a sale before that point, potentially as early as summer 2026.
Option 3: Premier League, PSG… or Saudi Arabia?
The most eye-catching interest came from the Saudi Pro League, with reported figures reaching €350 million per season. Contacts were made, but sporting considerations cooled that route.
At present, the most realistic alternatives outside Madrid would be an elite Premier League club or Paris Saint-Germain, the only destinations capable of matching both Vinícius’ salary demands and competitive ambitions. His reputation in England is strong after standout displays against Manchester City and Liverpool, though no formal talks are underway.
Arbeloa reshapes the landscape
Under Álvaro Arbeloa, Vinícius once again feels protected.
“When he’s happy, he’s unstoppable,” the coach has said repeatedly.
Inside the club, there is acknowledgment that Alonso’s handling of Vinícius played a major role in his dismissal. Now, sustained improvement under Arbeloa could push Madrid to stretch further in their next contract proposal.
Vinícius himself struck a calm tone this week:
“I want to stay here for many years. I trust the president, and he trusts me. We’ll sort things out at the right time.”
