Real Madrid's Contract Standoff with Vinicius Junior Sparks Salary Battle Behind Closed Doors
Real Madrid are reportedly worried about a potential "salary battle" involving Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and Jude Bellingham as contract discussions with the Brazilian continue.
Despite having two years remaining on his existing deal, Vinícius Júnior and his representatives have started negotiations with Real Madrid regarding a contract extension. Both the player and the club want to finalize the winger's future at the Santiago Bernabéu well ahead of the 2027 expiration date.
However, talks have allegedly been "stalled and uncertain" for the past five months due to salary expectations from Vinícius Júnior. According to AS, the 24-year-old currently receives approximately €15 million ($17.4 million) annually, but is seeking close to €20 million ($23.3 million) net per year going forward.
The €5 million ($5.8 million) raise may not appear substantial for Real Madrid, particularly considering the Brazil star's crucial contributions to Los Blancos' 14th and 15th Champions League victories, alongside multiple other honors.
However, this salary boost would establish Vinícius Júnior as the team's top earner in basic wages, even exceeding Mbappé's current €15 million ($17.4 million) annual salary.
This situation could prompt Mbappé to seek higher compensation from Real Madrid. The French captain had a superior statistical season compared to Vinícius Júnior, netting 44 goals in all competitions while claiming both the Pichichi Trophy and European Golden Boot.
Jude Bellingham might also pursue a salary increase. The midfielder scored 15 goals during the 2024–25 campaign, just seven fewer than Vinícius Júnior's 22-goal tally. The English star also maintains one of the squad's highest work ethics.
This chain reaction scenario is precisely what Real Madrid hopes to prevent. AS indicates the club refuses to "disrupt the wage structure" through Vinícius Júnior's contract renewal.
However, either Real Madrid or the Brazilian superstar must make concessions to achieve meaningful progress in contract negotiations.