RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesReason behind Real Madrid’s urgency to renew star winger’s contract revealed
Real Madrid and Vinicius Jr. have used the past 24 hours to work past their differences, for they have been at odds for a long time now over the player’s contract renewal.
At a time when his departure to Arsenal seemed likely, Los Blancos began a fresh round of negotiations with the player last night as their last-ditch attempt to secure his future.
As part of the latest negotiations, they reportedly even improved their offer contrary to the news going around in recent weeks. Now, the player is said to be closer to staying than leaving with massive progress being made last night.
A reason for the urgency
As reported by UOL Esporte in Brazil, the real reason behind Real Madrid’s sudden urgency to seal the Vinicius saga was that they were aware of how serious Arsenal are about signing the player.
Arteta and Co. are serious about signing Vinicius. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
The London-based club, after all, tabled a close-to-irresistible offer to the Brazilian winger including a salary of €24 million net annually. In addition, they were prepared to give away 100% of his image rights to the player himself in what would have been a significant economic boost.
That prompted Real Madrid to up their game and offer, for it became clear that the player leaving was suddenly a real possibility. Given how the winger is almost synonymous with the club, a departure in his prime would be a massive blow.
Rapid progression expected
With Real Madrid’s offer having improved and Vinicius opening up to the possibility of staying, the pressure has suddenly been taken off the administration’s shoulders. There is, however, a lot left to complete.
An agreement is expected soon. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Given how Vinicius’ renewal has already dragged on for too long, it will be on the club’s mind to close the operation and make it official at the earliest. After all, he is already on the final year of his contract.
The BBC report that Los Blancos expect Vinicius’ response in a matter of hours, not days, and that the player is close to finalising his stance. Rapid movements are expected over the next 24 hours, possibly even an official announcement.
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