According to The Athletic's Real Madrid beat reporter Mario Cortegana in a video podcast, contract extension talks between Vinicius and Real Madrid have entered a critical stage. The next few days and weeks could determine the player's future, with current possibilities including extending his contract with Real Madrid, a summer transfer, or leaving as a free agent when his contract is close to expiration.
Mario Cortegana stated that negotiations between both parties began in January 2025. Vinicius' side initially hoped for a comprehensive salary package close to a net annual salary of €30 million, with the inclusion of a renewal bonus. The player's team has already shown willingness to lower some salary demands, but the renewal bonus remains the core point of contention in the negotiations.
Vinicius' side uses Mbappe's contract as a reference, arguing that the player has made outstanding contributions since joining in 2018 and deserves top treatment within the team. Real Madrid, on the other hand, is concerned that offering him a renewal bonus would set a precedent, leading other key players like Bellingham to make the same demands in future contract renewals, thus impacting the existing salary structure.
Against the backdrop of stalled contract negotiations, Arsenal has been working for several months and has had contact with Vinicius' team. Club owners have reportedly approved the financial framework required for a potential deal, and Arteta also greatly admires Vinicius. However, there is currently no evidence that an agreement has been reached between the two parties.
There are divisions within Real Madrid regarding whether to sell Vinicius this summer, with some hoping to avoid the player leaving as a free agent in the future, but the final decision still rests with Florentino. The upcoming new round of meetings between Real Madrid and the player's representatives will be an important juncture in determining Vinicius' future.
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