Vinícius Júnior's future at Real Madrid is at a pivotal moment. His silence in recent weeks, far from being a coincidence, hides moves that could change the landscape of the European market.
According to information from Fichajes.net, while all eyes were on Rodrygo Goes as a possible target for Pep Guardiola, Manchester City's real interest is focused on Vinícius.
The Brazilian is keeping open talks with the current Premier League champion. The scenario, which seemed unthinkable a few months ago, has started to take shape with the mediation of agents close to the player.
Europe before Arabia
Although Vinícius isn't ruling out heading to Saudi Arabia in the future, his priorities are clear: to stay in Europe and compete at the highest level. He believes he still has a lot to offer at the top and considers that the Premier League could give his career a new boost.
At Real Madrid, however, he feels that his status might not match his expectations.
Beyond the sporting aspect, there's a decisive financial component: the player wants a contract that reflects his real weight in the team. That's not something the club seems willing to offer him at this time.
Talks underway
Discretion has been total. Negotiations have taken place in parallel with speculation about Rodrygo, which has served as a smokescreen for the real moves.
According to Fichajes.net, Guardiola sees Vinícius as a top-level addition to strengthen a left wing that, despite having talent, doesn't have such an unbalancing profile.
The interest is mutual. City, backed by its financial muscle, is willing to offer a salary that comes close to the Brazilian's demands. In addition, Guardiola's sporting project, European champion two seasons ago, is extremely attractive to the player.
A move that would shake up the market
Vinícius's departure from Real Madrid wouldn't be a simple transfer. His farewell would mean an emotional and sporting blow for the club, which would lose one of its most charismatic footballers. It would also force a rethink of the transfer strategy, especially on the attacking front.
Meanwhile, Manchester City would see its candidacy for all titles strengthened. The Brazilian's arrival would fit with the team's attacking philosophy and add a constant threat in the most demanding matches.
Time, a key factor
There are no official deadlines, but the coming weeks will be decisive. Real Madrid will have to decide whether it meets its star's demands or negotiates a shocking transfer.
Vinícius, meanwhile, is keeping a firm stance and doesn't intend to rush.
For now, the only sure thing is that the Brazilian's silence is anything but coincidental. The story, which seemed like just another summer rumor, is very much alive and could change the balance of power in Europe.