Real Madrid ‘map out’ major transfer plan as Vinicius Jr halts renewal talks

November 25, 2025 Oliver Obel

According to The Athletic, discussions over a new deal have been paused since early in the year, with people close to the negotiations saying Vinicius has “no current intention” of advancing talks.

The report attributes that reluctance largely to a deteriorating working relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso, whose rotation choices and tactical adjustments have left the winger feeling marginalised.

Tension first spilled into public view during October’s El Clasico, when Vinicius reacted angrily to being substituted and was heard saying, “Always me… I’m leaving.”

He later apologised to club president Florentino Pérez, but The Athletic noted that his statement intentionally avoided mentioning Alonso — a detail that sources described as reflecting deeper resentment.

Inside the club, several staff members have reportedly commented that the mood between the pair has not noticeably improved, and some doubt whether it can be repaired quickly.

A tactical rift that sparked larger questions

People familiar with the situation told The Athletic that a flashpoint came during Real Madrid’s Club World Cup loss to PSG. Vinicius, usually deployed on the left, was moved to the right wing and expected to play a reduced role before a late change in the lineup forced adjustments.

For a player who believes he should anchor the attack, the decision was interpreted as a sign of diminished trust.

That match, according to the report, became a recurring reference point in ongoing disagreements and complicated any attempts to reset the relationship.

Madrid balance reassurance with contingency planning

Despite the tension, senior figures remain determined to keep Vinicius. Beyond his role in the attack, he is one of the club’s most recognisable modern faces — a factor that carries both commercial and sporting weight.

Even so, Barcelona-based outlet SPORT reported that the club has outlined a contingency plan should the situation deteriorate. Their preferred replacement would be Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, long admired by the Madrid hierarchy.

While Haaland’s contract at City runs through 2034, SPORT noted that Madrid believe their positive relationship with his agent, Rafaela Pimenta, could become relevant if circumstances ever shift in Europe’s transfer landscape.

Financial stakes and outside interest

Vinicius earns roughly £15.8 million a year. SPORT reported that Madrid explored a raise, but his representatives sought a package closer to Cristiano Ronaldo’s former salary in the Spanish capital — a level that would place him among the highest-paid players in club history.

External interest has emerged as well. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is understood to have examined the possibility of a major offer, though no discussions advanced. Meanwhile, one English outlet has claimed that Manchester United may be prepared to open talks around a bid near £176 million, though both clubs have declined to comment.

For now, Madrid face a delicate balancing act: repairing an internal rift, protecting one of their most valuable assets, and preparing for the possibility — however remote that a foundational player could contemplate an exit.

Sources: The Athletic, SPORT