Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior has reportedly demanded a higher salary than Kylian Mbappe as part of his contract negotiations with Real Madrid. The 24-year-old, who has been a key player for Los Blancos, is pushing for a major pay increase and other benefits as discussions continue between his representatives and the club.
Why Vinicius Wants a Bigger Deal
Vinicius previously turned down a contract extension offer from Madrid in September, believing that his performances on the pitch would strengthen his bargaining position. Now, after delivering strong performances this season, he has returned to the negotiating table with significant demands.
One of the biggest points of contention is his salary. The Brazilian currently earns a similar amount to Mbappe, who makes €15 million (£12.5m/$15.76m) annually. However, his representatives argue that he deserves more than the French star due to his contributions to the team. They are pushing for a new deal that would see him earn at least €25 million (£21m/$26.26m) per year.
Beyond the salary increase, Vinicius’ camp is also pressuring Madrid to match or come close to a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia. Reports suggest that a Saudi club has offered him a five-year contract worth €1 billion (£832.2m/$1.05bn), making it one of the biggest deals in football history.
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Real Madrid’s Response
For now, Real Madrid is hesitant to meet Vinicius’ demands. The club had initially planned to postpone contract negotiations until the end of the season, but news of his discussions with Saudi officials has forced them to accelerate the talks. Despite his outstanding performances, Madrid is reportedly reluctant to go beyond their salary structure for any player, including Vinicius.
While the club values him highly, they are not willing to rush into an agreement that could disrupt their wage structure, especially with other stars like Jude Bellingham and Mbappe in the squad.
Saudi Arabia’s Tempting Offer
The financial offer from Saudi Arabia is difficult to ignore. Not only would Vinicius receive an enormous salary, but he would also be given a special ambassadorial role for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which Saudi Arabia will host. This additional role would boost his earnings and global influence beyond the pitch.
However, sources close to the player say his main concern is not just money but also the competitiveness of the Saudi Pro League. While the financial package is attractive, Vinicius remains focused on playing at the highest level and competing for major trophies.
What’s Next for Vinicius?
With contract talks still ongoing, the pressure is on Real Madrid to make a decision. If they refuse to meet his demands, Vinicius could consider a move away, with Saudi Arabia being a serious option. However, if the club can find a compromise, the Brazilian star could remain at the Santiago Bernabéu for years to come.
For now, the ball is in Real Madrid’s court, and their response in the coming weeks could determine the future of one of their most important players.