Real Madrid are still keen on extending Vinícius Júnior’s contract beyond its current 2027 expiration, but uncertainty surrounding his future at the club has deepened significantly, Africasoccer can report.
Contract discussions have been at a standstill since May, with the player’s camp believing negotiations are unlikely to restart before the 2026 World Cup.
If that scenario plays out, the Brazilian forward would enter the final year of his deal without a renewal in place, a situation that has raised concerns on all sides.
On the pitch, matters have not helped to ease the tension. Vinícius is enduring a difficult spell in front of goal, having gone 16 matches without scoring.
His struggles have drawn frustration from sections of the Santiago Bernabéu crowd, where he has been booed in recent games, while reports suggest his relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso is also under strain.
Those close to the player believe the intense media scrutiny surrounding his contract has contributed to a shift in fan sentiment. They remain confident, however, that the atmosphere will improve once Vinícius rediscovers his form and the team’s results pick up.
Despite Real Madrid’s hope of retaining him, sources indicate that a potential sale next summer is no longer being dismissed, provided a suitable offer emerges that satisfies all parties. Interest from Saudi Arabia, once considered a factor, has reportedly faded entirely, with no recent contact from clubs in the Pro League.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are increasingly being linked with a possible move to recruit Vinicius Junior.
