Vinicius Jr has become a serious topic in the European transfer market after Chelsea signaled, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes, an offer close to €150 million to Real Madrid. The figure would place the deal among the biggest in English soccer history and brings to the surface something that had already been discussed behind the scenes. The Brazilian is going through a delicate moment at the Spanish club, with limited protagonism, low numbers and stalled contract renewal talks. An exit isn’t set in stone, but it’s no longer unlikely.
Below-par season, strained relationship and a frozen contract
The facts help explain why Vinicius Junior’s name is back at the center of the news cycle. On the field, the numbers don’t match the weight he carries. He has just five goals across all competitions and hasn’t scored since early October. Under Xabi Alonso, the forward has lost space and minutes, something that became clear in the clásico against Barcelona, when he left the field visibly upset after being subbed off. The image went viral and exposed a discomfort that hasn’t faded with time.
Internally, the assessment is that the player remains important, but his contract situation is a concern. His deal runs through 2026, and renewal talks have cooled in recent months. Salary demands, his role in the sporting project and the length of a new contract have slowed down an agreement that once seemed straightforward. At Valdebebas, the thinking is pragmatic. Without a renewal before next summer in Europe, a sale starts to be considered to avoid a loss in value. The club doesn’t want to force a breakup, but it also doesn’t want time working against it.
Chelsea move early while Real weigh the impact
As Real try to manage the situation, Chelsea are making their move. Everything points to the London club being ready to push forward if a renewal doesn’t happen. The idea is for Vinicius to become the face of a new cycle, someone capable of leading the sporting project and making an impact on and off the field. Youth, top-level experience and commercial appeal all work in the Brazilian’s favor, and he would arrive as the next major star of the Premier League.
From the Spanish side, an offer of that size doesn’t go unnoticed. Losing Vinicius would be a sporting and symbolic blow, especially for a player who was named FIFA’s best in the world in 2024. On the other hand, €150 million would give the club room to strengthen the squad and reinforce a long-standing principle that no one, not even the biggest stars, is bigger than the team. There’s no rush to sell, but there’s also no room for improvisation.