Real Madrid closing on final Vinicius Junior contract decision
- Vinicius Juniors's long-term future at Real Madrid repeatedly called into question
- Brazilian winger now looks likely to extend stay in Spanish capital
- Contract expected to run until 2029 or 2030
The speculation over Vinicius Junior's Real Madrid future could be nearing an end amid reports he'll sign a new long-term contract at the Santiago Bernabeu.
A surprise move to the cash-rich Saudi Pro League, potentially for a world record fee, has been touted for the 24-year-old, who is firmly established as one of the best forwards in world football.
But there's always been a confidence in Madrid that Vinicius has no interest in departing the 15-time Champions League winners, despite rejecting an initial offer a new contract, instead wanting to cement a legacy as one of the club's greatest modern day players.
Vinicius narrowly missed out on winning the 2024 Ballon d'Or – the eventual decision to award Rodri the prize caused so much controversy that Madrid instructed every player and official to boycott the ceremony in Paris – but stressed after turning down Madrid's first proposal that he was "very excited" to be discussing fresh terms as he wanted to "spend much more time here".
Various outlets in Spain, including MARCA, report that an agreement over a new deal is now close, potentially extending the Brazilian's stay with the club until 2030.
Negotiations between the club and the player's agents are said to have advanced in recent days, to the point where Madrid's confidence in Vinicius staying is "total and absolute".
Vinicius hasn't been at his blistering best during the 2024/25 campaign, but he did receive the Player of the Tournament and Golden Ball awards at the FIFA Intercontinental Cup in December – he assisted Kylian Mbappe's opening goal in a 3-0 win over Pachuca before scoring a penalty of his own.
He has demonstrated that he can play in the same team as Mbappe, even though Madrid have struggled to replicate the form they showed when winning a La Liga and Champions League double last season.
Los Blancos could be under new management in the summer, with Carlo Ancelotti tipped to leave – his departure could come immediately after the Copa del Rey final against Clasico rivals Barcelona – in favour of appointing former midfielder and current Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso.
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