Key Real Madrid figures want superstar to be sold if no contract agreement is reached – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been flying high in the transfer window so far, operating with the kind of clarity under Jose Mourinho that has been missing for a few seasons now.

However, if there is one thing that could dampen their spirits, it is the transfer saga involving their superstar attacker, Vinicius Junior.

Los Blancos’ contract saga with the Brazilian has dragged on for far too long now and needs to be resolved at the earliest.

Now, according to Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, this week could be key in determining the outcome of the contract negotiations.

Club prepared to consider a sale

Vinicius is due to meet with Real Madrid officials this week to continue negotiations over a contract extension, with his current deal set to expire in June 2027.

According to Cortegana, influential figures within the club would support selling the Brazilian this month if an agreement over a new deal cannot be reached.

New meeting expected. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website)

The reasoning is simple. Allowing one of the world’s biggest stars to run his contract down would hand the player enormous leverage and could ultimately see Real Madrid lose a valuable asset for nothing in 2027.

Thus, this month could make or break Vinicius’ future at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Renewal bonus remains sticking point

Cortegana has added that Vinicius has softened his financial demands compared to earlier discussions.

The Brazilian is now said to be open to lowering his overall salary expectations, having previously sought a package worth just under €30 million per year through a combination of fixed wages, performance bonuses and, most significantly, a renewal bonus.

It is that renewal bonus which continues to divide the two parties. Real Madrid are not keen on setting a precedent that would allow other stars to demand a similar structure during negotiations.

Ultimately, as important as Vinicius is, Real Madrid should not do anything that would break the wage structure at the club.

Perez holds the final decision

Perez will have the final say. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Jose Mourinho is understood to appreciate Vinicius’ profile after speaking with the winger since his return to pre-season training.

However, the final call rests with Florentino Perez.

Arsenal have explored the conditions required for a potential move should contract talks collapse, with the Gunners keen on making the Brazilian the face of their project.

Thus, if Real Madrid and Vinicius are not able to reach an agreement, he already has a next destination to target.

The upcoming week is crucial not just for Vinicius, but also for Real Madrid, and the outcome will depend on compromises during the contract talks, one way or the other.