In recent weeks, Vinícius Júnior's inner circle has hinted at some discontent. Some leaks suggested that the Brazilian doesn't feel fully valued.
Other, more aggressive rumors indicated that he had a mega-offer from Saudi Arabia on the table that could change everything. But Florentino Pérez hasn't bought it.
From the very first minute, in Real Madrid's offices there were suspicions that something didn't add up. A club willing to pay a fortune for Vinícius right after the contract renewal?
Such strong interest as to move heaven and earth, but without any official offer? It smelled like a strategy.
Florentino takes a stand
According to what Real Madrid's president has been able to confirm, that supposed Arab offer was nothing more than a bluff. No one in Saudi Arabia has submitted a serious proposal to the club, much less one close to what his release clause demands.
Florentino has asked around and has found out that there isn't any real interest. There are only self-interested moves from the player's entourage.
Florentino has already replied. He has done so with the same forcefulness he used with Cristiano Ronaldo when he wanted to leave. He expects Vinícius at the negotiating table.
The message he'll give him is clear: if Vinícius wants to leave, he just has to bring the one billion euros that his clause stipulates. It's the strategy he followed with Cristiano Ronaldo when he asked for more money.
Vinícius runs out of arguments
The Brazilian forward wanted to gain more weight within the club, both financially and in sporting terms. But the strategy hasn't worked. The supposed Saudi interest has been debunked, and now he finds himself without arguments.
There isn't any external pressure to justify an exaggerated salary increase or an improvement in his contract.
Moreover, Xabi Alonso hasn't guaranteed that Vinícius will be undisputed. In the Basque coach's new project, players like Mbappé, Bellingham, or Brahim are also demanding prominence.
The Brazilian doesn't have the same status as before. The board knows it.
The club keeps calm
In Chamartín, there isn't any rush or nerves. They know Vinícius has a contract, an unattainable clause, and few real alternatives outside Madrid.
Florentino isn't willing to give in to pressure or leaks. If anyone wants to take him, they must come with the money up front. If not, he must keep performing.
For now, Vinícius will have to lower his tone. His maneuver hasn't worked and the club is clear: no star is above the badge. Not even him.