Real Madrid rarely lets go of a star player in his prime, but there is mounting conjecture that Vinicius Jr. could be the next big name to leave the Santiago Bernabéu. Despite being one of the club’s most recognizable stars, whispers around the Spanish capital indicate that a summer departure may no longer be unthinkable.
Reports in Spain claim that the Brazilian forward — whose contract runs until June 2027 — has yet to agree to a new deal, despite multiple offers from the club. With contract negotiations stalling and tension reportedly simmering behind the scenes, Madrid’s hierarchy may soon be forced to make a decision: keep faith in their star winger or cash in while his value remains sky-high.A Frustrating Few Months for Vinicius
While Vinicius Jr. remains an elite talent, his role under new coach Xabi Alonso has been a point of contention. The 25-year-old has been substituted off in several crucial matches and started on the bench more often than usual this season — an unexpected turn for a player once viewed as untouchable.
His frustration boiled over last week during El Clásico, when he reacted angrily to being substituted and stormed straight down the tunnel, muttering, “Always me! I’m leaving the team.” The outburst was caught on cameras and quickly went viral.
Vinicius Jr. has since issued a public apology, expressing regret for his emotional reaction and emphasizing his love for the club.“Sometimes passion gets the better of me,” he said. “I always want to win and help my team. My commitment to Real Madrid will never change.”
Even so, the incident has reignited debate about his long-term future in Madrid — especially given the club’s history of moving players on when the timing is right.
Potential Suitors and Replacements
If Real Madrid were to entertain offers, they would expect an astronomical fee. Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, ready to offer a record-breaking sum should Vinicius become available.Such a sale would free up enormous financial room for Madrid to chase another marquee signing — and several names are already being floated as potential successors.
Erling Haaland
Perhaps the most tantalizing possibility is Erling Haaland. Despite already boasting Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid are never shy about adding more star power. Haaland, widely considered the best pure striker in the world, has long been admired by the Madrid board. Should he decide to leave England, Spain — and specifically the Bernabéu — would be the most logical destination.Pairing Haaland with Mbappé could transform Madrid’s front line into one of the most fearsome in football history. Alonso would need to find tactical balance, but the idea of the two superstars leading the line together would be irresistible to fans.
Nico Williams
If Madrid seek a more natural replacement on the left, Nico Williams is high on the shortlist. The Athletic Club winger, one of Spain’s brightest young talents, nearly joined Bayern Munich last summer before opting to stay in Bilbao. With Barcelona also interested, Madrid’s pursuit may hinge on Vinicius’s exit.A move to Madrid would reunite him with French compatriot Mbappé and offer Los Blancos another explosive wide option.
PSG, meanwhile, have depth in attacking positions — with Desire Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia both capable of playing out wide — which could make Barcola available for the right price.
What Next for Vinicius and Madrid?
For now, the situation remains fluid. Real Madrid are publicly calm, insisting that Vinicius remains a “fundamental player for the future.” Yet behind the scenes, the club are already planning for every scenario. If the Brazilian’s relationship with Alonso cannot be repaired, the summer of 2026 could see another galáctico-sized transfer story unfold in Madrid.
