Contract negotiations for Vinícius Júnior at Real Madrid are currently stalled, with indications that discussions may not resume until after the 2026 World Cup. His existing contract is set to expire in June 2027, which raises concerns regarding his future as he enters the final year of his agreement.
Recent data points to a strained relationship between Vinícius and head coach Xabi Alonso. The player has been excluded from the starting lineup on four separate occasions, and his response to being substituted during October's Clásico was notably negative, adding to the complexities of the situation.
Although the potential for a renewal remains, there has been no significant advancement in negotiations. Earlier reports suggested that an agreement was close, with proposals for Vinícius to earn €20 million ($23 million) annually, supplemented by €10 million ($11.6 million) in bonuses. However, Vinícius' representatives contend that the final offer from Real Madrid deviated from previous discussions and did not include the anticipated bonuses.
Conversely, club representatives assert that a verbal agreement was reached but not executed, leading to frustrations among executives regarding the player's camp's adherence to commitments. Consequently, negotiations have reached a standstill, with Vinícius currently earning approximately €17 million ($19.7 million) net annually.
Vinícius' representatives argue that accepting a modest salary increase in exchange for a contract extension until 2030 would not be a strategic decision, given the current market context. Despite this impasse, Real Madrid remains optimistic about finalizing a new deal for Vinícius, who has secured two Champions League titles and three La Liga championships since joining the club in 2018, solidifying his position as a top player globally.
Further complicating the negotiations, club executives have expressed dissatisfaction with the communication and handling of the discussions by Vinícius' camp. Notably, Real Madrid initiated contract talks earlier than usual,in February 2025,due to interest in the player from the Saudi Pro League.
Another factor influencing the negotiations is the signing bonuses received by Kylian Mbappé, as Vinícius seeks comparable remuneration. While his professional relationship with Mbappé remains strong, the deteriorating rapport with Alonso presents a more immediate challenge.
In an effort to rectify the situation, Vinícius publicly apologized via social media for his behavior following the substitution in the Clásico, although he did not specify Alonso. Notwithstanding the difficulties at the club level, Vinícius continues to be a key player for the Brazilian national team under former Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti as preparations for the World Cup progress.
