Where Will Vinicius Junior Land Next? Top Transfer Destinations Revealed
Vinícius Júnior's response to being substituted became one of the key discussion points following Real Madrid's 2–1 triumph in El Clásico, fueling additional rumors about his potential departure from the Spanish capital.
The Brazilian star clearly displayed his displeasure when Carlo Ancelotti removed him during the final 25 minutes of Sunday's eventful match, despite having contributed significantly to Madrid's advantage in the game.
"I'm departing from this team, it's preferable that I go, I'm going," Viní was heard declaring as he marched off the Santiago Bernabéu pitch, before bypassing Ancelotti entirely and heading straight to the tunnel. The forward would later return for the post-game commotion.
Friction between the player and manager stretches back to the summer transfer window, and Viní's recent explosion serves as yet another sign that harmony is lacking. His deal with Madrid concludes in 2027, with the Spanish giants reluctant to provide the 25-year-old with the substantial renewal he feels he has deserved.
Should no resolution emerge in the upcoming months, the prospect of Vini departing Madrid next season should be considered a genuine possibility. In such circumstances, which club would be the most probable destination to acquire him?
4. Arsenal
Initial signs point to Arsenal finally breaking their six-year trophy drought this campaign, with the Gunners sitting atop the Premier League table following three consecutive runner-up positions.
They've assembled a roster capable of challenging across various competitions, with their dead-ball expertise and resilient backline making them an extremely difficult opponent to overcome.
Few weaknesses exist in Mikel Arteta's lineup, but if supporters identify one area for improvement, it's along the left flank. While Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli have performed adequately this term, many anticipate the club will make their next major investment in this section of the field.
Arsenal have been connected with Rodrygo and Rafael Leão in previous transfer windows, but their emerging reputation as one of Europe's elite teams might provide them with the confidence to pursue Vinícius in 2026.
He would demand excessive funds from the Gunners, both regarding transfer costs and salary demands, but the Premier League frontrunners represent one of the limited realistic options for the Madrid sensation.
Likelihood rating: 2/10
3. Paris Saint-Germain
Viní Jr's alleged £350,000 ($464,810) weekly wages wouldn't intimidate the Qatari-backed Paris Saint-Germain, nor would Madrid's rumored valuation of £220 million ($292 million).
Therefore, we should view Paris Saint-Germain as a potential destination for the Brazilian attacker, though several significant factors explain why Viní would never transfer directly from the Spanish to the French capital.
Initially, relations between both organizations have been tense due to the Kylian Mbappé situation, which finally resolved in 2024 when the Frenchman joined Madrid on what wasn't exactly a free move. Relations may have improved since, with PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi urging Los Blancos to return to the football "family" despite their ongoing Super League promotion.
Nevertheless, it appears unlikely for Florentino Pérez to transfer one of his 'galácticos' to a Champions League competitor.
PSG don't require Viní Jr when they possess Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué, Ousmané Dembélé and Bradley Barcola in their ranks.
Their previous strategy of pursuing marquee signings failed to deliver their ultimate objective.
Likelihood rating: 3/10
2. Man City
Weak speculation has previously emerged regarding a possible Man City approach for Viní Jr, and the Citizens might be monitoring the Brazilian's circumstances in Madrid closely.
Similar to PSG, City possess substantial financial resources, and meeting Madrid's requirements would likely pose no problem—provided Pep Guardiola considers acquiring the 25-year-old essential, naturally.
The Citizens manager has formerly described the Brazilian as an "exceptional" player, and appeared to suggest he was unfairly overlooked when missing out on the 2024 Ballon d'Or to one of Pep's own players, Rodri.
Nevertheless, the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) complicate any chase for Viní Jr. He would be entering his final contract year next summer, though Los Blancos retain every right to request enormous compensation for his services.
The Manchester outfit has also faced examination regarding numerous financial irregularities, making it potentially unwise to contemplate executing one of history's most expensive transfers.
Likelihood rating: 4/10
1. Al Ahli
In truth, it's Real Madrid or Saudi Arabia for Vinícius Júnior.
The dynamic Brazilian talent represents precisely the caliber of player the Saudi Pro League desires. They've acquired aging legends and several reasonably prominent players in their peak years, but none matching Viní's status.
Witnessing one of football's elite move to the Middle East could signal a significant transformation in the sport's power structure, with the Saudis possessing the ambition and, crucially, financial capability to execute this transfer.
Reports suggest a billion-dollar offer has been presented to the 25-year-old to serve as Saudi football's flagship figure, with Al Ahli previously considered the most probable destination should he join the ranks of Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema.
Saudi Arabia appears in no hurry to secure the Madrid superstar, with some indicating they would wait until 2028 to see him relocate. However, Saudi clubs might capitalize on his current Madrid situation and make their move next year, having been rejected in 2024.
Likelihood rating: 6/10