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Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior has made it clear he intends to remain at the Bernabéu for the foreseeable future, putting an end to any transfer rumors surrounding him.
The 25-year-old, whose deal with Los Blancos runs until June 2027, has been the subject of high-profile transfer speculation ever since contract extension discussions broke down. Vinicius Jr and Real Madrid reportedly hit a wall over the player's requested salary of $34.6 million (€30 million) per season.
Adding further complications to the negotiations was the Brazilian's strained relationship with former manager Xabi Alonso. It was reported that Vinicius Jr refused to put pen to paper on a new contract while the Spaniard remained at the helm.
Now thriving under new boss Álvaro Arbeloa and back to his sharpest, the No. 7 left no room for doubt about his future. "I'm only thinking about Real Madrid and staying there for a long time," he told reporters while away on international duty with Brazil.
Vinicius Jr Gives His Take on Blockbuster MLS Transfers
The transfer chatter comes just a day after Atlético Madrid legend Antoine Griezmann put pen to paper with MLS club Orlando City. The 35-year-old will see out the remainder of the season in Spain before linking up with the Lions this summer.
Vinicius Jr was quizzed about the high-profile switch and had only glowing praise for the Frenchman he has faced off against throughout his career.
"Griezmann is a fantastic player, he's had an incredible career in Spain and with the French national team too," Vinicius Jr said. "I really admire him and everything he's achieved. I think he'll bring a lot to the league."
Griezmann now joins a growing list of European veterans in the United States, set to compete in the same league as Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Son Heung-min, and Thomas Müller.
When pressed on whether he might one day make a similar move, Vinicius Jr once again reaffirmed his dedication to Real Madrid.
Pressure Mounts on Vinicius Jr As World Cup Looms
While a new contract with Real Madrid appears to be on the horizon, Vinicius Jr has far more pressing matters to focus on. Beyond helping his club secure silverware this season, the World Cup is rapidly drawing closer.
Despite his brilliance in the famous white jersey, Vinicius Jr has found it difficult to replicate that form for the Brazil national team. The 25-year-old has netted just eight goals in 45 outings for the Seleção — a tally he will be desperate to boost significantly at this summer's tournament as Carlo Ancelotti's side chase glory on football's biggest stage.
"I imagine everyone expects me to be one of the key players [at the World Cup]," Vinicius Jr said. "I'm ready for every challenge in my career. I've already played in a World Cup and I don't want to lose again.
"There's Raphinha, João Pedro. The young talents coming through — Endrick, Estêvão. We're all prepared. We can also decide a game from a set piece. That's how you win a World Cup."