Real Madrid is experiencing intense days in their offices. When everything seemed on track to renew Vinícius Júnior, two unexpected factors threaten to break the agreement. Although the Brazilian has reiterated his desire to stay, the scenario has changed and not for the better.
A million-dollar disagreement
Vinícius wants to earn like a global star. He is. But the club is not willing to break its salary structure for him.
Currently, the winger earns 17 million euros net per year. But his agents have already put a new figure on the table: 30 million, including bonuses for signing the renewal. A notable increase, almost double what he earns today.
From the club, the response has been clear: no more than 20 million. The positions remain distant and, although there is willingness from both sides, no one is giving in. Madrid understands that Vini is key, but also considers that it can't set a precedent that affects future renewals.
This tug-of-war has set off alarms. What previously seemed a formality is now an open, sensitive, and risky issue.
Saudi Arabia enters the game
At this moment of tension, a new player appears: the Saudi Pro League. There is no formal offer, but there are contacts.
According to Marca, representatives of the Saudi league have met at least twice with Vinícius's agents. They are seeking a strategic operation: to sign a young player, at the elite level, with global projection.
The interest is real, even though there is not yet a concrete proposal. The concerning part is that the player's camp is receptive to listening. Why? Because that also pressures Madrid to raise its offer.
A slump that doesn't go unnoticed
The third factor complicating everything has nothing to do with money or external offers, but with soccer. Vinícius is not at his best. Since the Ballon d'Or disappointment, his performance has dropped.
Within the club, there is some concern. Some do not view unfavorably accepting a strong offer if the situation becomes entrenched. They consider that the Brazilian has crossed several lines on and off the field, with constant protests and behaviors that do not help the group.
Everything can change, but something has broken
Vinícius remains a key piece of the white project. No one disputes that, but his renewal is no longer a simple matter of time. There are cracks and when that happens, anything can happen.
The club still trusts reaching an agreement. The player, deep down, does too. But with Saudi Arabia lurking, an evident sports slump, and a difficult-to-solve salary difference, Vinícius's future is more hanging in the air than ever.