According to Spanish newspaper SER, Real Madrid was surprised when, during contract negotiations, Vinicius requested a salary increase from 17 million USD to 23 million USD annually, after taxes. His performance last season was considered his lowest in 4 years, and Real Madrid didn't win any major titles.
Vinicius's contract expires in two years, so Real isn't overly concerned about him leaving on a free transfer. However, the club wants the Brazilian star to regain his form in the 2025-2026 season to justify a pay raise.
 |
Vinicius celebrates winning La Liga with Real Madrid at the Cibeles fountain, Madrid, Spain, 12/5/2024. Photo: Reuters |
Vinicius celebrates winning La Liga with Real Madrid at the Cibeles fountain, Madrid, Spain, 12/5/2024. Photo: Reuters
If Vinicius doesn't accept this requirement, Real is prepared to sell the 25-year-old. Saudi Arabian clubs are reportedly willing to match Cristiano Ronaldo's current salary of 230 million USD per year, tax-free. They're also prepared to pay Real's asking price, making it a potentially beneficial deal for all parties.
Last season, Vinicius scored 22 goals in 58 appearances for Real. Meanwhile, Mbappe scored 44 goals in 59 matches. After just one season, the French captain appears to have taken the number one spot in Real's attack from Vinicius. Both players tend to play on the left wing, so Vinicius isn't indispensable to coach Xabi Alonso.
The progress of 21-year-old forward Gonzalo Garcia also gives Real more options in attack. Garcia has been compared to Raul Gonzalez, with his ability to score inside the penalty area. He may be a more suitable choice alongside Mbappe, allowing the 26-year-old more freedom to move to the left wing.
Another Brazilian star at Real with an uncertain future is Rodrygo Goes. The 24-year-old forward has fallen out of favor and wants to leave. However, no team has yet met Real's asking price of approximately 117 million USD.
Hoang An (SER)
