Real Madrid revive Vinícius Jr contract talks with €22m offer, but star wants more

Real Madrid have reopened contract negotiations with Vinícius Júnior, presenting an improved offer after the World Cup, according to reports. Talks had been on hold for almost a year. Madrid's new proposal is worth in the region of €22 million ($25 million) a year - more than the club had offered during the previous two seasons. The length of the proposed extension has not been disclosed. Vinícius, however, is asking for roughly €30 million per season, so the gap is still significant. Vinícius is about to enter the final year of his current deal, which runs through June 2027. He currently earns around €17.5 million a year. If no new agreement is reached, he would be able to sign a pre-contract with another club in January and eventually leave the Bernabéu as a free agent at the end of next season. Arsenal, the reigning Premier League champions, have been monitoring the situation with interest. His camp believe this contract will define the rest of his career. They feel Madrid should properly acknowledge what Vinícius has contributed since joining in 2018, pointing to his two decisive goals in Champions League finals. Reports last week suggested Madrid could even consider letting the Brazilian go this summer if no breakthrough arrives. The 26-year-old returned from his post-World Cup break on Monday, passed a medical and trained with the squad under new coach José Mourinho. Earlier reports indicated Vinícius had turned down the Arsenal option and wants to stay at Real Madrid.