Real Madrid have ended speculation over Vinicius Junior’s future after tying the Brazilian forward to a new contract until June 2032.
The agreement ends months of uncertainty and shuts the door on Arsenal, who had identified Vinicius as their top attacking target. The Premier League champions were ready to launch an ambitious move if the 26-year-old allowed his previous contract to run down.
Instead, Vinicius chose to stay at the Santiago Bernabéu. Real Madrid confirmed the extension on Thursday after holding decisive talks with the player a day earlier.
“Real Madrid FC and Vinicius Jr have agreed the extension of the contract of our player, who is tied to the club until June 30, 2032,” the club said in a statement.
The Vinicius Junior contract 2032 agreement is a major boost for new head coach Jose Mourinho. Madrid have already reshaped their squad this summer by signing Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konaté, Denzel Dumfries, Carlos Espi and Yan Diomande. Keeping Vinicius was equally important as the club looks to challenge for major honours again.
Vinicius has become one of Madrid’s biggest stars since joining from Flamengo in 2018. He has played 375 matches, scored 128 goals and supplied 100 assists. During that spell, he has won three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies.
Last season, the Brazil international scored 22 goals in all competitions. However, Madrid finished without a major trophy after ending second in La Liga behind Barcelona.
The renewal also protects Madrid from losing one of the world’s best forwards for a reduced fee this summer or on a free transfer next year. At the same time, it prevents Arsenal from strengthening with a player entering his prime.
Earlier this week, Vinicius welcomed Mourinho’s arrival after returning for pre-season.
“He wants me to be just as I’ve always been, happy, positive and playing my own style of football,” he said.
