Vinicius Junior signs new Real Madrid contract, Barcelona edge ahead in Rodri pursuit

Real Madrid have secured Vinicius Junior for the long term. The club officially announced that Vinicius has signed a new contract until 2032, with insider reporting that the player never wanted to leave. Vinicius repeatedly told his agents, family and those closest to him that his intention was to stay at Real Madrid. On social media, he wrote that eight years at the Bernabeu was not enough and that he wanted six more years and forever. Romano highlighted Florentino Perez's role in the process, especially during the difficult moments between Vinicius and Xabi Alonso earlier in the season, including after El Clasico. The decisive meeting took place yesterday, and the agreement was completed today. Real Madrid also made Yan Diomande's arrival official. The club released a statement to confirm the deal, bringing an end to one of the longest-running stories of the summer. According to Romano, Diomande is now officially a Real Madrid player. Barcelona are pushing to complete one of the most significant transfers of the window. They have sent a contract proposal to Rodri and his agent and informed Manchester City that they are in talks with the player. Barcelona are waiting for Rodri, personally or through his agent, to tell City he has decided to join them. After that, club-to-club negotiations can take place. Real Madrid were prepared to pay €50 million for Rodri last week, but their signal now is that the move is drifting away because Rodri has opened the door to Barcelona. Rodri has spoken with Hansi Flick and Deco, who Romano says has done an incredible job. Manchester City's decision to wait rather than close Real Madrid's €50m bid has allowed Barcelona to move to the front of the queue. Arsenal are expected to sign a centre-back, and that is one of their next priorities. They are also assessing the winger position, although a move for Cristian Romero would face major obstacles. Romano noted that Bruno Guimaraes is now official, and the latest roundup also included Manchester United's search for a left-back.