Real Madrid are facing a potential shake-up in their attacking lineup as tensions rise over contract negotiations with star forward Vinicius Junior. The Spanish giants have reportedly refused to meet the Brazilian’s wage demands, leading to increasing speculation about his long-term future at the club.
According to a recent report from Mundo Deportivo, the 25-year-old winger is seeking wage parity with newly signed superstar Kylian Mbappe. Vinicius is currently contracted to Real Madrid until 2027, but has made it clear through his representatives that he would only consider an extension if his salary is increased to match that of his French teammate.
At present, Vinicius Junior earns around €15 million net per season. In comparison, Mbappe’s newly negotiated contract, which includes bonuses and image rights, is reported to total approximately €23 million annually. The stark difference in earnings has become a sticking point in the renewal talks.
Negotiations between Real Madrid and Vinicius’s camp have been at a standstill for several months, with both sides failing to reach a compromise. The club’s reluctance to approve a nearly 50% wage increase is rooted in financial caution as well as concerns about the player’s performance consistency during the 2024/25 season. Despite scoring 22 goals in 58 matches across all competitions, Vinicius’s form has reportedly not been convincing enough for the club to justify such a substantial salary hike.
Further complicating matters, Spanish outlet Cadena SER has revealed that club president Florentino Perez is already preparing for the possibility of Vinicius’s departure. Perez has identified Manchester City’s prolific striker Erling Haaland as the top replacement target. The club is said to be exploring the prospect of forming a formidable strike partnership between Haaland and Mbappe at the Santiago Bernabéu.
While Real Madrid remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached, the current impasse suggests that a dramatic summer transfer saga could be on the horizon if both parties fail to find common ground in the coming months.