‘Very close’ – Real Madrid president drops major Vinicius contract update | OneFootball

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has addressed two topics that have generated significant discussion around the club in recent weeks, offering clarity on both Vinicius Jr’s future and Anas Laghari’s role behind the scenes.

Speaking during a recent media appearance, Perez reflected on his plans for the club while also responding to criticism and speculation surrounding several internal matters. 

His comments arrive at an important moment as Real Madrid are in the middle of presidential elections.

Perez defends trusted ally

One of the subjects raised during the interview was the involvement of Anas Laghari, whose influence around the club has been questioned by electoral candidate Enrique Riquelme despite not occupying an official position within Real Madrid’s organisational structure.

Perez has responded to Enrique Riquelme. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“Why is there a person with so much power alongside the president who holds no official position and who, moreover, is involved in most of the club’s operations?” Riquelme had said.

Responding to those concerns, Perez spoke warmly about his long-standing relationship with Laghari and his family. 

Explaining why he values his advice, the Real Madrid president said, “I saw Anas being born. He’s like a son to me because his father was like a brother. 

“He was also a civil engineer and we worked on projects together in Morocco. His father was brilliant and so is his son. 

“He only helps me because he’s exceptionally intelligent. He also helps me at ACS, but he isn’t at ACS, and nobody says anything. Nobody here is going to take any money.”

Vinicius’ renewal

Perez has defended Vinicius Jr. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Perez also addressed the ongoing conversation surrounding Vinicius Jr. and his long-awaited contract renewal. 

With rumours continuing to circulate regarding the Brazilian’s salary demands and future, the club president moved to calm the situation.

“Some people are wrong (those who boo him). They read certain newspapers and get put in a situation. 

“Vinicius is a star and I’m delighted he’s with us. He’s very close to signing. People say he’s asking for a lot of money but that’s a lie. I’m not going to force him into anything,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo