Vinícius Júnior's future has changed radically in a matter of days. Until recently, his continuity at Real Madrid seemed guaranteed. However, everything has taken an unexpected turn after his participation in the Club World Cup.
In that tournament, his performance has caused more doubts than certainties. From that point on, his entourage has toughened its demands for a contract renewal. This has upset the board, which isn't willing to accept any condition.
Florentino Pérez has already shown that he doesn't hesitate when it comes to important decisions. For now, he has put Vinícius's contract renewal on hold. The most surprising thing is that he's considering a departure.
Saudi Arabia makes a historic offer for Vinícius Júnior: €350 million (350 millones de euros) to take him now
From Saudi Arabia, they've launched an unprecedented offensive. They're offering €350 million (350 millones de euros) to take Vinícius Júnior from Estadio Santiago Bernabéu this very summer. It's an astronomical figure that has even made Florentino hesitate.
In other circumstances, the president would've rejected the proposal immediately. However, the current situation forces him to think twice. Especially because with that money, they could strengthen several positions.
Xabi Alonso has requested changes after the disappointing Club World Cup. He wants to shore up three specific areas of the field. Selling Vinícius would allow for several important signings.
Vinícius Júnior's farewell pays for 3 necessary signings: "Bastoni, Barella and..."
If the Vinícius operation comes to fruition, the beneficiaries would be three new signings. The first on the list is Bastoni, Inter's center-back. The Italian could land in Madrid for about €100 million (100 millones de euros).
Alongside him, his national and club teammate, Nicolò Barella, is highly sought after as the brain of the midfield. His departure from Inter would cost around €80 million (80 millones de euros), but at Bernabéu, they believe his quality is worth it.
Finally, the signing of a young striker with potential is being considered. Nick Woltemade, from Stuttgart, is the chosen one. He has scoring ability, size, and is valued at about €80 million (80 millones de euros).
With €350 million (350 millones de euros) for Vinícius, Real Madrid plans €260 million (260 millones de euros) in key reinforcements for Xabi Alonso
In total, €260 million (260 millones de euros) would be invested in three signings to rejuvenate and balance weak areas. It's a clean and beneficial operation in the medium term. The remaining difference would be reserved for future additions or financial adjustments.
Florentino knows that Vinícius is an emblem, but he's also aware of the current market situation. Sometimes, selling at the right time is a victory. This offer from Saudi Arabia won't be repeated.
Real Madrid hasn't replied yet. They're studying all possible scenarios. With each passing day, Vinícius's farewell seems more viable and logical from a strategic point of view.
Florentino weighs the economic and sporting impact
The decision won't be easy or popular among fans, but elite soccer also moves by numbers, performance, and planning, where Vinícius is a talent, but not indispensable. With Bastoni and Barella, the defensive block and creativity would gain strength and precision, and with Woltemade, a new offensive profile, young and with a future, would emerge. Florentino has the final say and if he says "yes" to Saudi Arabia, Real Madrid could begin a much more complete new era.