Real Madrid face Kylian Mbappe sized hurdle in Vinicius Jr negotiations

The future of Vinicius Jr at Real Madrid hangs in the balance. Negotiations to renew his contract, which expires in 2027, have stalled due to a wage demand from the Brazilian star that has surprised the club's management: matching the salary of Kylian Mbappe.

This request, which would make him the highest-paid player in the club alongside the Frenchman, has caused a stir in the offices of the Santiago Bernabeu. Real Madrid, which has always been characterized by its policy of salary austerity, now faces a dilemma: give in to the demands of its star or risk losing him.

The Mbappe factor

Vinicius Jr's demand is not capricious. The Brazilian, aware of his growing importance in the team and his media impact, believes that his salary should be commensurate with his status. And what better reference than Mbappe, the most coveted player in the world, whose stratospheric salary has set a new ceiling in football.

However, Real Madrid is not willing to break its salary scale for a player, however important he may be. Florentino Perez, the club's president, is a strong advocate of economic discipline and does not want to set a dangerous precedent that could generate discontent in the rest of the squad.

Saudi Arabia on the prowl

In this scenario of uncertainty, a new actor has entered the scene: Saudi Arabia. Saudi football, driven by multi-million dollar investments, is recruiting world stars with chequebooks in hand. And Vinicius Jr is no stranger to their radar.

According to various media, several Saudi clubs would be willing to offer the Brazilian an irresistible contract, which would not only match Mbappe's salary but exceed it by far. An offer that would undoubtedly test Vinicius Jr's loyalty to Real Madrid.

Renew or leave?

The decision is in the hands of the player. Vinicius Jr has the opportunity to become the undisputed leader of Real Madrid, the natural heir to Benzema and Modric. But for this, he must give in to his salary demands and accept a contract in line with the club's policy.

If, on the other hand, he prioritizes money and accepts the offer from Saudi Arabia, he will become one of the highest-paid players in the world, but at the cost of renouncing the glory and prestige that only Real Madrid can offer him.

Time will tell which path Vinicius Jr chooses. What is clear is that his future is an unknown and that Real Madrid is playing with fire. Losing their star would be a huge blow for the club, which would see its sporting project and its image worldwide weakened.