Vinicius Jr Takes Steps Toward Contract Extension with Real Madrid

The ongoing saga surrounding Vinicius Jr at Real Madrid may reach a resolution sooner than expected as the Brazilian forward seeks to extend his stay at the club. After a tumultuous 2025 season, marked by only 13 goals across all competitions and a frustrating 15-match goal drought, Vinicius faced criticism from fans during his last appearance of the year against Sevilla, where he wore the captain’s armband. Given his pivotal role in the squad and the recent injury to Kylian Mbappé, who could be sidelined for several weeks, the pressure is mounting for the young star to elevate his performance.

Vinicius Jr’s inconsistency on the pitch has not gone unnoticed, with supporters at the Santiago Bernabéu expressing their frustration openly. Coach Xabi Alonso has also shown his dissatisfaction, frequently substituting Vinicius in crucial moments, including during key matches like El Clasico. However, it’s when Vinicius is challenged that he often rises to the occasion, showcasing his potential early in the season. Complicating matters further is the uncertainty surrounding his contract extension, which has lingered due to protracted negotiations between his camp and club management.

New Approach from Vinicius Jr

According to reports from AS, Vinicius Jr has opted to lower his contract demands in a bid to facilitate negotiations for an extension with Real Madrid. This shift indicates his desire to remain at what he considers his “home club” and underscores his commitment to proving his loyalty. The discussions had stalled following the Club World Cup due to disagreements between Vinicius’s representatives and club officials, who have been reluctant to meet their financial expectations. Currently, there appears to be a gap of approximately €15 million that needs bridging for a potential agreement.

Future Implications

The relationship between Vinicius and both the fans and Xabi Alonso will be critical in determining the outcome of these negotiations. Historically, Alonso has maintained a distant relationship with Vinicius, aiming to instill a sense of awareness in him regarding his responsibilities on the field. With 18 months remaining on his current contract, this upcoming period is crucial for Vinicius as he aims for an impactful end to the season with Real Madrid while also preparing for international duties with Brazil.

The early months of 2026 could prove pivotal for Vinicius Jr; if no extension is secured by summer, he may find himself in a position of power during transfer discussions. As Real Madrid navigates Mbappé’s absence, more responsibility will fall on Vinicius’s shoulders in upcoming fixtures against Real Betis in La Liga and Atletico in the Supercopa. Retaining Vinicius is a top priority for the club; thus, it is in both parties’ best interest that he delivers an outstanding performance this year.