Real Madrid’s long-term planning has taken a sharp new direction, with the Spanish giants reportedly leaning toward building their future around French superstar Kylian Mbappe instead of Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior.
The shift follows tense contract talks with Vinicius, whose representatives are pushing for him to become the club’s highest-paid player. This demand has reportedly frustrated club president Florentino Perez.
Though Vinicius remains under contract until 2027, his form has dipped, managing only one goal in recent Champions League qualifiers and going ten straight La Liga games without scoring. The slump has caused concern at the top, with Mbappé seen as the more reliable long-term asset.
Vinicius’ camp is said to view Mbappe’s arrival as a direct threat to his position. His form, coupled with outbursts on the pitch, has also strained his bond with fans.
Real Madrid had considered a major pay bump beyond the €75 million he’s expected to earn by 2027, but talks have broken down.
New manager Xabi Alonso has even benched him in key games, and now, Saudi clubs are reportedly circling with a €350 million offer.
