Shock in Madrid… Vinícius rejects the renewal offer and sets an unexpected condition to stay!

Real Madrid has been rocked by unexpected developments involving star forward Vinícius Júnior, as reports suggest the Brazilian sensation has turned down a proposed contract extension — setting the stage for potential turmoil within the club just weeks before the new season begins.

Although the players are set to return to training at Valdebebas in preparation for their La Liga opener against Osasuna, Vinícius has become the center of off-field drama that has left fans and insiders puzzled. Once the darling of the Santiago Bernabéu, the young forward’s future is now clouded in uncertainty.

Vinícius, who once declared his love for the club, stating, “This is the club of my life. I want to stay here for years and make history,” is now reportedly demanding a salary on par with Kylian Mbappé — upwards of €25 million net per year. This figure far exceeds the €20 million salary originally agreed upon during initial contract talks, leaving the boardroom at odds with the player’s entourage.

According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid’s top brass have frozen renewal discussions due to what they describe as a “lack of clarity” in the player’s stance. The unexpected financial demands appear to have blindsided club officials, who are now reevaluating their position in light of this new development.

Toño García, a journalist close to the situation, reports that Vinícius never actually agreed to the terms being circulated in the media. His camp sees no urgency in renewing the deal, which is already valid until June 2027. The reluctance to engage in early negotiations suggests a more calculated move from the player’s side — possibly testing the club’s commitment.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez and sporting director José Ángel Sánchez have allegedly decided not to reopen talks unless Vinícius shows a marked improvement in form. After an underwhelming season compared to his explosive 2023-24 campaign, where he was crowned La Liga’s Best Player, the club is demanding results before considering new financial commitments.

Despite the ongoing tension, Vinícius continues to publicly voice his desire to remain at Madrid long-term. He has said he wants to end his career with Los Blancos, but sentiment alone may not be enough to sway a management team now under pressure to balance the books, especially with Mbappé now officially in the squad.

Insiders suggest that the Brazilian could be at a crossroads — either rise to the challenge and lead the attack alongside Mbappé, or risk being seen as surplus to requirements if he fails to meet expectations. The arrival of the French superstar has shifted the dynamics within the squad, potentially affecting Vinícius’ status.

The situation paints a picture of a deeper dilemma at Madrid: how to integrate two global stars with massive wage expectations, without disrupting the club’s financial structure. If left unresolved, this standoff could create a rift in the locker room and cast a shadow over the campaign.

With La Liga about to kick off, one question looms large: Will Vinícius deliver performances that force Madrid’s hand and reignite negotiations? Or is this the beginning of a slow, painful separation between the player and the club that made him a star?