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Football Insider

Real Madrid to Restart Talks with Vinicius Jr as Xabi Alonso Departs

Real Madrid is set to reignite contract negotiations with Vinicius Junior, spurred by the departure of Xabi Alonso. Vinicius, a key asset for Los Blancos, had put talks on hold but with Alonso out, a new chapter is set to begin. Learn more about the unfolding saga below.

Real Madrid to Restart Talks with Vinicius Jr as Xabi Alonso Departs

Real Madrid are reportedly ready to restart contract talks with Vinicius Junior following the departure of Xabi Alonso. Los Blancos have made another change in their dugout after generating plenty of headlines across the 2025-26 campaign. Many of those have focused on Brazilian superstar Vini, with the South American shelving discussions regarding an extended stay at the Bernabeu.Vinicius’ current terms are due to run until 2027. Real are understandably reluctant to see a prized asset - one that figured prominently in Ballon d’Or debates across 2024 - head into the final 12 months of his deal.There is no chance of him leaving the Spanish capital as a free agent, with a big-money sale set to be sanctioned if no fresh terms can be thrashed out. The 25-year-old winger continues to attract plenty of interest from the Saudi Pro League.Offers are said to have been tabled from the Middle East, with some of those reportedly worth €1 billion (£867m/$1.2bn) over the course of a long-term contract. Vinicius appeared destined to enter into transfer talks at one stage, with a strained relationship being endured at the Bernabeu with World Cup winner Alonso. ESPN reports that the possibility of a renewal being agreed would have been “non-existent” had Alonso remained in charge of Los Blancos.He was relieved of his duties less than 24 hours after a Spanish Super Cup final defeat at the hands of Clasico rivals Barcelona. Vinicius found the target in that contest, as he scored a stunning solo goal, but he was far from being happy.Interim Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa has been quick to sing Vinicius’ praises, with bridges slowly being rebuilt. Real intend to open contract discussions again.It is, however, claimed that “the difference between the wage packet requested by the Brazilian, and what the club is willing to offer, is still viewed as substantial”. Real are said to have presented Vinicius with a deal that would be worth approximately €20m (£17m/$23m) per year. Negotiations are said to have stalled as “Vinícius demanded an additional €10m in bonuses”.Further talks were planned after the 2026 World Cup, but they are now being brought forward with Alonso out of the picture. Vinicius’ camp are not, however, convinced that Real can find the funds required to do a deal. The Blancos believe that terms can be drawn up similar to those which Kylian Mbappe is working on - with a number of bonuses boosting the numbers.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingAlonso had reportedly become a negative factor in negotiations resuming, with Vinicius prepared to wait on an exit door swinging open. He clashed with his former manager after learning that he was to be dropped for a FIFA Club World Cup semi final clash with Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2025.Matters came to a head during a Clasico date with Barca at Santiago Bernabeu in October, with Vinicius protesting loudly in public when being substituted during the second-half of that contest. He later apologised for his actions, but the damage had been done.While Vinicius and Alonso made a point of hugging on the touchline, Alonso's tenure is now officially over, with Real in the market for a new permanent head coach.Whoever takes the reins will want to ensure that Vinicius is part of the long-term project in Madrid. The groundwork will soon be laid there, with optimism building again when it comes to a contract extension.Bringing an end to any uncertainty off the field could also work in Vinicius’ favour on it, as he has struggled for a spark this season. With plenty of distractions being factored into the equation - including a World Cup in the summer - he has registered just six goals and seven assists through 28 appearances in all competitions.

1

A Fresh Start for Vinicius Jr

Real Madrid's decision to resume contract talks with Vinicius Jr comes amid a backdrop of managerial change. With Xabi Alonso no longer in charge, a renewed sense of optimism surrounds the Brazilian star's future at the Bernabeu.

2

The Stalled Negotiations

Despite Real Madrid's eagerness to secure Vinicius' long-term commitment, significant disparity in wage demands has caused a roadblock. The club's proposed offer of €20m per year has hit a snag with the player seeking an additional €10m in bonuses.

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Rebuilding Bridges

Interim boss Alvaro Arbeloa's positive remarks about Vinicius signal a potential reconciliation between player and club. The departure of Alonso, who had strained relations with the winger, has paved the way for fresh discussions.

4

Future Prospects

While uncertainties loom over the financial feasibility of a new deal, Real Madrid aims to emulate bonuses-driven contracts like that of Kylian Mbappe. The upcoming appointment of a permanent head coach will be crucial in charting Vinicius' future path at the club.

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On-Field Impact

Amid off-field distractions and a lackluster season, Vinicius will look to regain his form with contract talks back on the table. The prospect of securing his future could inject renewed vigor into his performances on the pitch.

Published on Jan 16, 2026