Real Madrid identify blockbuster replacement for Vinicius Jr as contract talks with Brazilian superstar continue to stall

Vinicius Jr's current deal is valid until 2027 and he is willing to extend his stay for three more years, but the winger wants a major hike on his current wages. According to reports, the Brazil star has demanded a higher salary than Kylian Mbappe is earning at Madrid at the moment.

The Madrid superstar has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, as officials from the league have been chasing the winger since 2023 and have reportedly put forward a €1bn (£832.2m) offer for five seasons on the table. Amid the lucrative offer from the Saudi Pro League, the Selecao star will continue to negotiate a higher salary with Madrid, although the Spanish giants are unlikely to meet the player's financial demands.

According to SER, club president Florentino Perez has identified Vinicius Jr's replacement, if he decides to exit Santiago Bernabeu. Madrid's first choice remains Manchester City star Erling Haaland as Perez wants to see the Norwegian goal machine being paired alongside Mbappe.

Xabi Alonso's side will kick off the 2025-26 campaign on August 19 as they host Osauna in their season opener.