Fresh off a Ballon d’Or runner-up finish and The Best FIFA Men’s Player award, Vinícius Jr. is looking to secure a salary worthy of his status among football’s elite. And if reports are to be believed, the Brazilian star’s next contract could make him the highest-paid player at Real Madrid—surpassing even Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé.
Vinícius’ Contract Demands: Bigger Than Mbappé and Bellingham?
According to ESPN, Vinícius’ representatives have made it clear to Real Madrid executives that their client deserves a significant pay raise. Currently earning around €10 million ($10.45M) net per season, plus bonuses, the 24-year-old forward is now pushing for a deal that would eclipse the expected wages of Mbappé—who is widely expected to join Los Blancos this summer.
Saudi Arabia’s Mind-Blowing $500 Million Proposal
While contract negotiations continue in Madrid, Saudi clubs are circling with an outrageous offer. Reports claim that Saudi Pro League teams are willing to pay a $300 million transfer fee for Vinícius this summer—and that’s just the beginning.
The real jaw-dropper? A staggering $200 million-per-season salary on a five-year contract, which would total $1 billion over five years.
With Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Neymar already making moves to the Middle East, Saudi clubs are desperate to lure football’s next big superstar.
Will Vinícius Stay or Go?
Despite the massive financial incentive, ESPN reports that Vinícius is far more likely to extend his Real Madrid contract than to leave for Saudi Arabia.
Why?
- At 24, Vinícius is in his prime, and leaving for Saudi Arabia now would cut short his European dominance.
- He is Madrid’s franchise player—a leader on and off the pitch.
- Winning the Ballon d’Or is a major goal, and competing in La Liga and the Champions League gives him the best shot.
- Mbappé’s expected arrival doesn’t change his status—he remains central to Madrid’s long-term project.
The Real Madrid Pay Structure Dilemma
Vinícius’ massive contract demands pose a unique challenge for Real Madrid. With Mbappé likely to arrive in 2024, Madrid will be balancing three of the highest-paid players in the world—Vinícius, Bellingham, and Mbappé—under one wage structure.
Madrid typically avoids giving one player a salary significantly higher than the rest, making these negotiations particularly sensitive.
Final Verdict: A Historic Pay Raise on the Horizon?
Expect Vinícius Jr. to stay at Real Madrid, but don’t be surprised if he becomes the club’s highest-paid player ever. While Saudi Arabia’s $500 million dream deal is tempting, his commitment to European football, Champions League glory, and Ballon d’Or ambitions will likely see him extend his stay in Madrid—on his terms.