Real Madrid News
Real Madrid megastar’s summer exit not ruled out but Saudi Arabia no longer an option
As has been the case for some time now, Real Madrid remain intent on securing the contract renewal of Vinicius Jr., while the player himself is keen on extending his stay.
However, both parties are at a standoff in negotiations, as the Brazilian forward is demanding a salary and signing bonus that Los Blancos are unwilling to meet.
With no fresh negotiations taking place since May last year, Vinicius is now in the final 18 months of his contract and could enter the final year of the deal come summer.
Exit no longer ruled out
As such, Rodra of ESPN reports that despite the intention of both parties, there is growing uncertainty over Vinicius’ future at Real Madrid, and as things stand, a summer exit is not being ruled out.
Given that the 25-year-old attacker’s contract expires in June 2027, some sources within the club do not rule out the possibility that he could be sold in the next transfer window if a satisfactory offer arrives for all parties.
No new contract negotiations are expected to take place at least until after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, by which point Vinicius will have less than 12 months left on his Real Madrid deal.
This contractual situation is compounded by sporting factors. Vinicius has gone 16 consecutive matches without scoring, has been whistled by Real Madrid supporters in several games, and his relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso is not ideal.
Those close to the forward blame the media for the fans’ reaction, believing there has been biased coverage of the renewal talks.
In any case, all parties agree that the solution to this situation lies in Vinicius returning to his best level and helping to improve the team’s overall performance.
Potential destinations
As for potential suitors should Vinicius decide to leave Real Madrid, the option of Saudi Arabia has faded. Several Saudi clubs had explored his situation, but there have been no new contacts for months.
Moreover, Vinícius is not willing to leave Europe at this stage of his career and, if he does not renew, would only consider moving to another top-level European club.
In recent days, Chelsea have been linked with a possible move, but so far, there has been no official contact from the London club and there appears to be no plans in the near future, although with the Blues, nothing can be certain.
So, to summarise, both Real Madrid and Vinicius want to renew, but the doors to a summer exit remain open in case no agreement is reached. What seems to be clear is that a move to Saudi Arabia is no longer on the table for the superstar.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
