Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior Begin Contract Talks As Initial Offer Is Rejected

Real Madrid have officially begun discussions with Vinicius Junior over a contract extension. However, the first renewal proposal from the club was turned down by the Brazilian forward and his representatives.

The 24-year-old, who signed his current contract in 2022 with an announcement in 2023, remains committed to the Spanish giants, but his camp is seeking an improved financial package that reflects his status among the world’s elite.

Vinicius’ Release Clause and Transfer Interest

Vinicius’ existing deal, which runs until 2027, includes a staggering €1 billion ($1.03 billion; £830 million) release clause. Despite this, he was linked with a move abroad in the summer transfer window. Reports in August 2024 suggested his representatives engaged in preliminary discussions regarding a potential switch to the Saudi Pro League (SPL).

Saudi clubs reignited their interest in December, reaffirming their desire to secure his signature in the summer. However, Madrid have shown a strong commitment to keeping the winger, making renewal talks a priority.

Salary Expectations and Comparisons

A key factor in the negotiations is Vinicius’ demand for a salary increase. Currently earning around €15 million net per year—including performance bonuses such as winning the FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year award—he is looking for a new deal that better reflects his stature.

His Madrid teammate, Kylian Mbappe, also earns €15 million per year but received a lucrative signing bonus after joining on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain. Vinicius and his camp believe he deserves a package that aligns with the club’s top earners, especially given his consistent impact on the pitch.

Meeting at Valdebebas and Madrid’s Stance

In mid-January, Madrid officials met with Vinicius’ representatives and a member of his family at the club’s training facility, Valdebebas. Although the club presented an improved financial offer, the player’s camp declined the proposal. Talks remain ongoing, with both parties expected to reach a resolution in the coming months.

Since his €45 million transfer from Flamengo in 2018, Vinicius has openly expressed his desire to achieve personal and team accolades at Madrid. In October, he was overlooked for the Ballon d’Or in favor of Manchester City’s Rodri but later claimed the FIFA Best award in December.

Vinicius’ Commitment to Madrid and Future Ambitions

Despite the contract impasse, Vinicius has reiterated his long-term commitment to Los Blancos. Speaking after Madrid’s Champions League triumph over Borussia Dortmund, he stated:

“I’m still only 24. I want to stay here forever and contribute as much as possible to this team, which has given me everything since I arrived here.”

Having made 293 appearances, scoring 101 goals, and providing 83 assists, Vinicius has played a pivotal role in Madrid’s success. His trophy cabinet includes three La Liga titles, two Champions League triumphs, and two FIFA Club World Cups.

This season, he has continued his impressive form, netting 16 goals and providing 10 assists in 28 appearances across all competitions.

As negotiations continue, both Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior will be aiming to strike an agreement that ensures his long-term future at the club while recognizing his value as one of the world’s premier footballers.

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