Vinicius' departure from Real Madrid appears as a strong possibility in 2026. But the Brazilian or the Spanish club will need to make efforts so that the winger does not leave so soon for Saudi Arabia.
The question arises: what to do with Vinicius? In the shadow of Kylian Mbappe since his arrival in 2024, the Spanish outfit's number seven has mostly been noticed this season for his clash with Xabi Alonso after being substituted during a match. Less attractive from a sporting point of view – six goals and five assists in 22 matches – the international now poses problems for his behaviour, which pushes to seriously consider his departure from Real Madrid in 2026.
But where can Vinicius go? The Premier League seems destined for him, but the Madrilenian is perhaps too expensive for the world's richest league.
Chelsea move away from Vinicius
Whilst the Spanish press, precisely Fichajes, recently claimed that Chelsea and Manchester United were fully committed to the Brazilian, even talking about a transfer around €200m (£175m), journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that the Blues actually have no intention of recruiting the player. According to the Italian, “Chelsea are taking a different direction” from spending colossal sums in the market, especially on a player who is no longer a young prospect.
The transfer specialist cites as proof the case of Victor Osimhen, “in talks” with the English outfit in 2024. “But the club ultimately decided not to follow through, as they did not wish to modify their salary structure.” In conclusion, Fabrizio Romano believes there is “no reliable rumour” linking Vinicius to the current third-placed Premier League side.
And, extrapolating, we can also imagine that Manchester United, who do not have optimal financial health, are not in a position to conclude a deal with the Merengues for the left winger, whilst, according to Cadena Ser, Real Madrid are demanding €250m (£220m) to part with him.
Real Madrid and Vinicius at impasse
If the Brazilian does not turn things around sportingly, as well as in his behaviour, his departure from the outfit chaired by Florentino Perez will become necessary. But they still need to be able to find a buyer. In any case, the Premier League do not seem able to meet Real Madrid's demands, as other English clubs, such as Manchester City or Arsenal, do not appear as credible destinations for the Brazilian.
The latter could then still bounce back in Saudi Arabia. But at just 25 years old, such a departure would appear as an abyssal sporting regression for a player of his stature – but Vinicius Jr is not immune from being lulled by illusions about the sporting power of the Saudi Pro League that Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr) communicates in all his interviews.
Real Madrid would certainly recoup their costs with a transfer to Saudi Arabia, but if the 25-year-old Brazilian wakes up and forgets this solution, the option of lowering the costs surrounding the winger's departure seems essential. And instead of demanding €250m (£213.5m), perhaps aiming for €90m or €100m (£75m or £90m), and the doors of the Premier League might open again to Vinicius.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
