Move over Real Madrid: Vinicius Jr signs with new club

Like teammate Kylian Mbappé, Vini no longer has only Madrid to think about, with another club now one of his main priorities.

Vinicius Jr has ventured into club ownership, following in the footsteps of Real Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappé, who invested in French club Caen last year.

Which club has Vinicius Jr bought?

According to Brazilian TV station Record, the forward, alongside other Brazilian and Spanish investors, has purchased a majority stake in FC Alverca, a club in the Portuguese second tier. The previous owner, Ricardo Vicintin, has sold his share (between 70 and 80% of the club) to Vinicius and his partners.

“FC Alverca – Futebol, SAD announces that engineer Ricardo Vicintin has sold his qualified stake in the company to a group of Spanish and Brazilian investors," a statement reads.

Current CEO Matheus Ornelas will be in control of FC Alverca until the end of the season. In the coming weeks, the names of the new owners joining Vinicius in the venture will be revealed. The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.

Who are FC Alverca?

Located in Alverca do Ribatejo, on the outskirts of Lisbon, FC Alverca are currently second in Liga Portugal 2, just two points behind leaders Tondela. The top two teams earn direct promotion to the top tier of Portuguese football.

FC Alverca have spent five seasons in the top division in their history, and an equal number in the second tier. The club boasts a roster filled with Brazilian players, with 15 of its footballers hailing from the South American country. Historically, the club has had strong ties to Brazilian football, with numerous Brazilian players donning its jersey over the years.

Originally founded in 1939, the club faced a severe financial crisis that led to its bankruptcy in 2005. After re-forming the following year, FC Alverca won promotion back to the second division in 2024 and is now on the brink of returning to the pinnacle of Portuguese football.