Real Madrid and Vinicius Junior remain locked in a delicate contract stalemate ahead of what is shaping up to be a decisive summer. While both parties have publicly expressed a desire to continue together, the situation remains unresolved — and a surprise Premier League option may now be emerging.
According to a report from The Guardian, Chelsea are considering a blockbuster move for Vinicius next summer. The Premier League club are reportedly willing to spend €160m to prise the Brazilian away from the Santiago Bernabeu, as uncertainty continues to surround his future.
What would Vinicius cost Chelsea?
The reported figure is eye-catching, particularly given that Vinicius is entering the final year of his contract. In most circumstances, that would significantly reduce a player’s market value.
However, previous reports from Spain have suggested that Real Madrid would only consider a sale if offers exceeded €100m, although numbers as high as €160m had not been mentioned until now. Chelsea’s financial strength could therefore test Madrid’s resolve.
An uncomfortable situation at the Bernabeu
Vinicius has consistently stated that his intention is to remain at Real Madrid, and Florentino Perez is also believed to favour keeping him at the club. The main stumbling block remains the salary demands from Vinicius’ camp, with his representatives reportedly seeking a wage package comparable to that of Kylian Mbappe.
On the pitch, matters have not helped his cause. Vinicius has struggled to rediscover the form that previously made him one of the most decisive attackers in Europe. Last season was widely viewed as his most underwhelming since becoming a regular starter, and he is currently enduring a 14-game goal drought.
The reaction from the Bernabeu crowd has reflected that frustration, with whistles clearly audible when Vinicius was substituted in recent home matches. Whether that sentiment influences the thinking of either the player or the club remains to be seen, but it does little to ease an already tense situation.
A defining summer ahead
With Chelsea now reportedly monitoring the situation closely, the coming months could prove decisive. Either a new agreement is reached, or Real Madrid may be forced to seriously consider a sale — even for a player long viewed as untouchable.
MZ Comment:
When form, contracts, and expectations collide, even the biggest stars can face defining moments in their careers.