Real Madrid is approaching a critical phase in Vinicius Jr.’s contract discussions, with a meeting planned between the club and the player’s representatives.
The negotiations have been lengthy, with both sides struggling to come to an agreement.
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Vinicius has presented his terms for a new deal, which the Merengues find unworkable.
As reported by journalist David Ornstein of The Athletic, the talks are delicately balanced, and Arsenal feels they have a genuine chance of securing a transfer this summer.
The future of the Brazilian player hangs in the balance, with three potential outcomes: signing a new contract, staying until 2027 and leaving for free, or making a high-profile move to Arsenal.
Loyalty bonus complicates matters
Ornstein states that Vinicius is seeking an annual salary of approximately €28 million, which Real Madrid is reluctant to accept. They are currently offering up to €22 million, with an additional €2 million in bonuses.
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However, salary isn’t the only hurdle affecting negotiations; Vinicius is also entitled to a loyalty bonus worth around €10 million, possibly more, under his existing contract with Real Madrid.
Negotiations remain stalled regarding the renewal. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Real Madrid could manage the loyalty bonus if Vinicius commits to a new contract.
However, it would be less favorable for the club to pay that bonus only for him to leave as a free agent the following summer.
This situation has led club officials at Real Madrid to believe that if there is no contract renewal, the 26-year-old should be sold this summer.
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Arsenal’s pursuit intensifies
Arsenal’s interest in Vinicius has grown significantly, with the club feeling hopeful about their prospects.
The Premier League champions are convinced that Vinicius would consider joining them if he does not sign a new deal with Real Madrid, though that is contingent on ongoing negotiations.
Behind the scenes, Arsenal has been planning for this move longer than it has been publicly acknowledged, with the club securing internal approval for the financial aspects of a potential transfer.
The Gunners are prepared to make Vinicius the centerpiece of their project at the Emirates, and manager Mikel Arteta is eager to bring him to London.
Arsenal is fully committed to the pursuit. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
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The financial disparity between Real Madrid and Vinicius remains the main stumbling block. This issue has drawn parallels to the Cristiano Ronaldo situation, where Madrid declined to meet his demands.
Ronaldo subsequently left for Juventus, and a similar outcome could transpire with Vinicius and Arsenal this summer.
Jose Mourinho has indicated that he wants Vinicius to stay at the club, while Real Madrid views a contract extension as the preferred outcome.
However, Los Blancos are not willing to disrupt their salary structure just to keep one player, even if he is Vinicius.
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The upcoming meeting is crucial for everyone involved. It may result in Vinicius and Real Madrid reaching an agreement on a new contract, or it could lead the club to seek a new destination for the Brazilian.
Meanwhile, Arsenal waits to observe how these discussions unfold.