Former Real Madrid scout Manolo Romero has sparked debate with comments suggesting club president Florentino Pérez could entertain offers for Brazilian winger Vinicius Junior, a player widely regarded as pivotal to the team’s success.
Romero’s remarks, made in an interview with Diario Sport, hint at a potential openness to selling Vinicius, despite his current status as a cornerstone of the squad.
Romero stated that Pérez’s enthusiasm for recent marquee signing Kylian Mbappé far outweighs his commitment to Vinicius.
This dynamic, coupled with growing interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, has fueled speculation about the Brazilian’s future at the Santiago Bernabéu.
According to Romero, a bid exceeding €300 million could prompt Pérez to consider parting ways with Vinicius.
If the Saudi clubs come with an offer of more than €300 million, I’m convinced Florentino will sell Vinicius, and he might even accompany him to the airport,” Romero claimed.
He emphasized Pérez’s unwavering admiration for Mbappé, referring to the French forward as the president’s “darling.”
Vinicius’ stance amid speculation
Despite these revelations, Vinicius Junior appears committed to his role at Real Madrid.
At just 24 years old, the Brazilian star is central to the club’s long-term sporting vision.
Reports indicate that no formal offers have been made, and the player remains focused on achieving his personal and team ambitions, including securing the Ballon d’Or—a prize he narrowly missed in October.
Saudi Arabian interest has reportedly reached eye-watering levels, with one investment fund rumored to have prepared a €1 billion package for the winger.
However, Vinicius has shown no indication of wanting to leave Madrid, and the club continues to consider him integral to their plans under manager Carlo Ancelotti.
Pérez and Real Madrid’s strategic direction
Florentino Pérez’s prioritization of Kylian Mbappé is no secret, with the French star viewed as the face of Real Madrid’s future.
This perceived favoritism has led to speculation about potential changes in the hierarchy of team stars.
However, there are no signs of immediate unrest within the squad, which has enjoyed a stellar 2024, culminating in five trophies and numerous individual accolades for its players.
Reports from Marca suggest Pérez is preparing to open negotiations to extend Vinicius Junior’s contract, coupled with a salary increase that reflects his status within the team.
Such a move would reaffirm the club’s commitment to keeping one of their most talented players amid mounting external interest.
For now, Real Madrid’s immediate focus remains on their upcoming fixtures, with stars like Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior returning to training as they prepare to face Valencia on Friday.
Whether Vinicius remains a long-term fixture in the squad, however, could hinge on how the evolving dynamics at the Bernabéu play out in the months to come.
