Real Madrid gives no respite in its planning for the midfield. Although the number one target is still Rodri, the club is already working on alternatives in case the signing doesn't come to fruition. One of them has gained momentum in the last few hours, surprisingly.
In the offices at Bernabéu, a name has emerged that until recently seemed out of reach. It's Vitinha, the Portuguese midfielder from Paris Saint-Germain, whose spectacular season has put him on the list of favorites for the major individual awards, including the Ballon d'Or.
Vitinha 2025 - The Midfield Maestro | Magic Skills, Goals & Assists | HD
This isn't just any rumor. Nor is it an offer without substance. This is serious.
Behind the operation, of course, is Jorge Mendes.
An old acquaintance returns to the game
The arrival of Gestifute, Mendes's agency, has put Real Madrid's executives on alert. Although lately Mendes has worked more with Barça—meanwhile, in fact, was key in deals like João Félix's—his past with Real Madrid carries weight.
He was the one who brought Mourinho, Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe, and Coentrao. Now he wants to be a protagonist again.
Mendes has presented Vitinha as the ideal piece to fill the vacancy left by Toni Kroos. The truth is that Xabi Alonso's coaching staff likes him a lot.
He is dynamic, technical, with great work rate and attacking ability. His profile fits what the new coach is looking for to complete a midfield that, with Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Bellingham, and Valverde, already commands respect.
Vitinha gains ground over the Argentinians
Florentino Pérez is also closely following Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister, but Vitinha has more internal consensus.
Not only because of his age or potential, but because of the level he has shown this season in Ligue 1 and in the Champions League. His progression has been meteoric.
In addition, he has an added value: his release clause (€130 million) is lower than Rodri's. His camp would look favorably on making the move to La Liga. Everything fits, but Real Madrid doesn't trust it.
Florentino on guard
The club is aware that Jorge Mendes may be using its name to raise the player's value. Or to force a higher renewal at PSG.
At Bernabéu, they've already experienced similar stories and don't want to fall into the trap. Even so, the sporting management isn't ruling anything out.
If PSG opens the door and Vitinha shows willingness to leave, Real Madrid will act. Xabi Alonso has already given his approval.
Now everything is in the hands of Florentino and Mendes. If the stars align, it could be the bomb of the summer.