Real Madrid is secretly negotiating a contract renewal that would disrupt the entire wage structure of the squad. Vinicius Jr., the club's one of the biggest stars in recent times, has made it clear that he wants to stay and further build his legacy at the club. But he also had the argument that his wages must reflect what he has achieved so far. The problem is, however, not quite so simple. Spanish daily AS writes that the club is afraid of unleashing a wage war in the dressing room, especially after the astronomical price tags that came with landing Mbappé and Bellingham.
The forward's current deal is up in June 2027, but the new one, if agreed, will take him through to 2030. The figures on the table, AS writes, are in the area of €20 million net a year, €100 million across five years. Bonus payments depending on titles, goals, and individual awards would also be factored in. Regardless of that, Real Madrid is moving with caution. Giving Vinicius what he wants would set a precedent other players would follow.
The club tries not to draw direct comparisons
AS explains that Real Madrid is trying to keep a grip on wages. If they approve Vinicius' terms, it would have a domino effect. The amount being discussed would put him ahead of Mbappé, and that already has alarm bells ringing at the club.
If Vinicius is offered that contract, Mbappé might come back with new demands. Bellingham might do the same. Such a shift could lead to discontent in the dressing room and put the club's financial strategy at risk in the long term.
Those close to the player maintain that what he is asking for is fair. He has been an integral part of the team, is a regular starter, draws attention from abroad, and is among the most well-liked players by fans. They also point to a minor clause in Mbappé's contract.
Signing bonus Mbappé received is being weighed by Vinicius' side as a covert salary. If spread over the five-year term of his contract, it amounts to more than what's officially declared. Based on that estimate, they don't believe Vinicius' demand is excessive within the current salary structure of the club.
For Vinicius, it is not just about numbers. His problem is that newly signed players are being rewarded from day one, while those who are already performing are left to wait. That imbalance is what is concerning him and his people.
Real Madrid try to buy time
The general feeling is that the renewal will happen, but the conditions are being discussed. The club wants to link part of the earnings to future performance, like titles, goal numbers, or great individual awards such as the Ballon d'Or or The Best. That would soften the impact on the club's annual outlay.
The extension of Vinicius' contract seems a matter of when, not if, but how it is achieved will have long-term repercussions. If the club pushes too hard, it will create tension. If it caves in on every level, it will risk losing control over its general wage policy. Finding the right balance will be the board's most difficult decision currently.
Eventually, how the club manages Vinicius Jr.'s contract will say a lot about the club's priorities and what the future at Santiago Bernabéu holds.