The uncertainty surrounding Vinicius Jr’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu appears to have evaporated overnight, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirming that the Brazilian superstar is now ready to commit his long-term future to Real Madrid following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso.
In a wide-ranging update via FootballTransfers—which also covered Marc Guehi’s switch to Manchester City and the managerial carousel at Manchester United—Romano clarified the situation involving the Ballon d’Or contender. While rumours of a world-record move to the Saudi Pro League or a shock switch to Chelsea have dominated the winter window, the reality is that the winger’s hesitation was internal, not financial.
The Alonso Obstacle Removed
It is understood that contract talks between Vinicius and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez had stalled significantly during the tenure of Xabi Alonso. Reports from Spain suggest that the relationship between the Brazilian forward and the former Bayer Leverkusen boss was "professional but cold," with Vinicius feeling his tactical freedom was being stifled.
However, with Alonso sacked on January 12 following the Spanish Super Cup defeat to Barcelona, the landscape has shifted. Romano confirms that Vinicius is now "fully focused" on Real Madrid and that the "major obstacle" to a renewal has been removed. The appointment of interim boss Alvaro Arbeloa, a figure who has worked closely with Vinicius in the past during his time as a club ambassador and youth coach, has immediately restored harmony to the dressing room.
Contract Details: Killing the 2027 Fear
Real Madrid’s urgency to sign Vinicius to a new deal is driven by the calendar. His current contract expires in June 2027, meaning he would enter the final 12 months of his deal next season—a dangerous territory that encourages predatory bids.
With the Alonso friction gone, Perez is expected to table a lucrative extension that will likely keep Vinicius at the club until 2030. The deal will also likely include an "anti-state club" release clause, designed specifically to ward off the sovereign wealth funds of the Middle East.
The Saudi "Blank Cheque" Rejected
This update effectively kills the lingering narrative of a Saudi takeover. Al-Ittihad had reportedly been preparing a "blank cheque" offer to test Madrid’s resolve, banking on the player’s unhappiness under Alonso to force a move. Romano’s update suggests that door is now firmly shut.
While the Vinicius Jr next club odds had shortened for a Saudi switch earlier in the month, the market is now expected to correct sharply. For Real Madrid, retaining their most potent weapon is effectively their biggest "signing" of the January window, providing stability as Arbeloa attempts to salvage the La Liga campaign.