Real Madrid is in a superior position regarding Vinicius.

Real Madrid remains the global football spotlight. Along with Jose Mourinho, the signing of Yan Diomande is also linked to Vinicius's contract extension.

Both Florentino Perez and Vinicius have long stated that a new deal is just a matter of time. The renewal itself is not an issue, but after the 2026 World Cup, Real Madrid holds the upper hand over Vini.

Vinicius falls behind Mbappe.

In North America, Vinicius performed decently, particularly during the group stage and the round-of-32 clash with Japan. Yet he failed to deliver a truly electrifying display. He became the first top star to exit the 2026 World Cup. Conversely, Kylian Mbappe shone brilliantly, becoming the first player since Gerd Muller in 1970 to net 10 goals in a single World Cup. "Kiki" also entered the record books as the tournament's highest-ever scorer with 22 goals.

Prior to the 2026 World Cup, many believed Real Madrid were taking a risk by allowing Vinicius to enter the tournament without a renewed contract, with his current deal entering its final year. However, President Florentino Perez's bet appears less alarming than anticipated. He has repeatedly demonstrated his aversion to being forced into a "psychological battle" in such negotiations. Over the past two seasons, Vini's camp has consistently leaked rumors of a €200 million offer from Saudi Arabia. It is well known that the former Flamengo star would not consider moving to Asian football while at the peak of his career, with the potential for further growth.

Despite Vinicius enjoying a memorable individual World Cup – his finest campaign with Brazil to date – he remains the driving force of Carlo Ancelotti's squad. Yet he failed to deliver a performance that could alter the narrative or cement his status as the top star. Furthermore, Brazil became the first among the championship contenders boasting major superstars to exit the tournament. The Selecao fell to Norway, with Vini being outshone by Erling Haaland.

Last season, from Xabi Alonso to Alvaro Arbeloa, there appeared to be an undercurrent of rivalry between Vinicius and Mbappe over the leadership role. This rivalry led Real Madrid to endure two consecutive trophy-less campaigns in major competitions. Perez let events unfold naturally. If the 2026 World Cup was the ultimate showdown between them, then Vini clearly came out on the losing end. Given recent developments, it is almost certain that Mbappe will be the focal point of Real Madrid's project under Mourinho. Consequently, Vinicius's ambition to command a salary on par with Mbappe now lacks strong justification.

Awaiting a settlement.

At this point in the protracted "saga" surrounding the contract extension, a definitive deal would serve everyone's interests. Real Madrid cannot afford to lose a player of immense transfer value on a free transfer, and finding a replacement for Vinicius would be prohibitively expensive. Naturally, the €100 million-plus spent on Yan Diomande is intended to bolster the forward line – covering for the injured Rodrygo, Brahim Diaz, or Franco Mastantuono – not to take over Vini's left-wing spot. The number 7 jersey will remain with the 26-year-old for years to come.

As for the Brazilian star, he remains eager to represent the most decorated and renowned club in Europe. Ultimately, the outcome hinges on mutual compromise. Perez can afford to be slightly more magnanimous, while Vinicius should temper his lofty expectations and accept a deal that is already quite lucrative.

At present, the mood between the parties remains largely positive, and every indication suggests they will reach a mutual understanding. This week, negotiations continue as Vini officially joins the squad under Mourinho's management. However, it would be a grave error to allow this uncertainty to drag on into the new season without a finalized contract. In that case, Mourinho would be forced to deal with a non-footballing issue, rather than concentrating on assembling a squad strong enough to challenge for honors.