Improved offer presented
Real Madrid have made an improved contract offer to Vinicius Jr as they seek to keep the Brazil winger at the Bernabeu. The 26-year-old has entered the final 12 months of his contract and has attracted interest from Arsenal in recent weeks. Talks over a new deal were at an impasse, but the Spanish side have now made a new offer, which Vinicius is understood to appreciate. Real now await his decision, with senior managers, including returning head coach Jose Mourinho, hopeful he will renew.[S1]
The revised proposal follows fresh negotiations between Vinicius' representatives and Real Madrid general director Jose Angel Sanchez alongside chief scout Juni Calafat in Madrid on Wednesday. Talks had previously stalled over financial terms, with the Brazil international seeking an annual package worth about €30 million, including basic salary, performance-related bonuses, and a renewal bonus. The renewal bonus had reportedly remained the major sticking point, but sources say Real have now significantly improved their offer to reflect Vinicius' status.[S2]
Arsenal's pursuit affected
Arsenal remain very keen to pounce should the terms not meet Vinicius' expectations, but the improved offer is expected to end their pursuit. Arsenal had identified the Brazilian as their priority left-wing target and had received approval from the club's owners to pursue a deal if talks collapsed. However, Real Madrid remain determined, while measured, to keep one of their biggest stars, though they are keen not to compromise their salary structure.[S3][S2]
The improved offer leaves Vinicius with a decision: extend his stay at the Santiago Bernabeu, allow his contract to expire next summer and become a free agent, or consider a move away from Spain. Vinicius returned to Real Madrid's pre-season training earlier this week after starring for Brazil at the FIFA World Cup, where he scored four goals in five appearances under Carlo Ancelotti.[S2]
Contract details and context
The details of the contract offer have not been revealed, but it is presumed Real Madrid would have improved the salary first and foremost. It does not seem likely they would offer a renewal bonus, which was important for Vinicius' camp, as that could have a knock-on effect on the rest of the squad. A loyalty bonus might be possible if he accepts, according to David Ornstein, but not if he does not stay.[S4]
Vinicius signed a contract extension three years ago which runs until 2027, and talks have been ongoing for the past 18 months. He has made 375 appearances for Real, scoring 128 goals and providing 100 assists. He has won three La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions League crowns, finishing second behind Rodri in the 2024 Ballon d'Or. Despite his 22 goals in the 2025-26 season, Real ended the campaign without a major trophy for the second consecutive year.[S1][S2]
