Real Madrid keeps moving pieces to strengthen its squad for the upcoming seasons. For months, Rodri was one of the names most frequently mentioned to reinforce the Merengue midfield.
However, in recent weeks, the situation has changed. Vinícius Júnior has requested a different signing, more in line with the needs and with a more accessible price: Vitinha, from PSG.
Rodri, the option that fades away
Rodri had been one of the first alternatives Real Madrid considered for the midfield. His profile as a modern midfielder, with good ball distribution and physical presence, fit with the club's vision. However, the cost of his signing and the complicated conditions made the operation lose momentum.
In addition, the White team needs a player who not only brings quality, but also youth and long-term potential. Vinícius, who has a strong voice in the locker room, has influenced the search for an alternative that meets these characteristics.
Vitinha, the young talent who convinces
The target now is Vitinha, Portuguese midfielder from PSG who has convinced the coaching staff and key figures like Xabi Alonso.
Vitinha is 25 years old, a perfect age to establish himself as a key piece for many years. His journey is no coincidence: trained in Porto's youth academy, he had a spell at Wolverhampton before joining PSG in 2022. In his last season, he was an essential player, accumulating more than 4,500 min. (4,500 minutes), with 8 goals and 5 assists, remarkable numbers for his position.
Vitinha combines technical quality with great tactical awareness, something Real Madrid values highly. In addition, his youth and potential fit with the idea of building a solid team for the future, with a strong and leading midfield.
Price and clause, the key to the signing
One of the biggest questions for Real Madrid was Vitinha's price, since PSG usually asks for high figures for its footballers. However, the player's contract includes a clause that reduces his release fee to €90 million for the summer of 2026.
This reduction turns the signing into a great opportunity for the White club, which could avoid paying the €130 million that was initially rumored.
Although €90 million is a high figure, Madrid sees it as fair for a player of such quality and great future. That's why the intention is to wait patiently until that date to complete the operation without having to make an excessive expenditure.