Contract talks stall - Could Vinicius Jr leave Real Madrid & how does he fit in Alonso's system?

Vinicius Junior and Real Madrid have reached an impasse on talks over a contract extension until 2030, which has subsequently cast doubt over his long-term future at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Brazilian international’s representatives have been locked in talks with Madrid chiefs for several months and reports emerged earlier this summer that an agreement had been reached. But that information was inaccurate and there’s now a standstill between the two parties, according to reports in Spain.

It’s understood that Vinicius Jr wants parity with Kylian Mbappé’s significant salary but Madrid have been unwilling to meet these demands. Mbappe is firmly viewed as the face of the new era at Madrid under Xabi Alonso and Vinicius’ contract situation will grow increasingly problematic for club chiefs. The 25-year-old’s contract runs until 2027 and Madrid won’t want Vini’s deal to run into the last 12 months next summer, so what does the future hold?

Could Vinicius Junior leave Real Madrid?

Firstly, Vini Jr made his intentions clear during the Club World Cup when he expressed his dream of staying at Madrid until he retires. “I hope I can stay here for many years,” Vini Jr said. “I’ve always said it’s the club of my life. I’m very happy with the coach and the staff, I hope I can stay. I have a two year contract until 2027. I want to stay for my entire career and make history in this team.” While the expectation is that both parties will eventually reach an agreement over contract terms, Madrid want everything sorted before next summer when he enters the last year of his contract. Given his standing as one of the best attackers in the world, Vini Jr would attract interest from major European clubs, if he was available on the market.

 Affording him would be another conversation, however, but Premier League giants possess the financial power to sign the Brazilian. There’s also long-standing interest from Saudi Pro League clubs but it’s highly unlikely that Vini Jr would accept a move to the Middle East as he approaches the prime of his career - especially with his desire to win the Ballon d’Or well-documented. It will be fascinating how the situation around Vini Jr develops next season, especially his role within Alonso’s system. The Spaniard deployed his preferred 3-5-2 formation during the Club World Cup with Vini Jr playing as part of a two-man striker partnership. That’s clearly not his favourite role - left-wing - so that will provide another intriguing sub plot as his contract situation rumbles on.