Vinicius Jr’s future under the scanner as ex-club chief makes stunning claim

As speculation continues to swirl around Vinicius Jr’s long-term future at Real Madrid, fresh comments from his former club have added another layer of intrigue.

With the Brazilian forward entering the final stretch of his current contract at the Santiago Bernabeu, uncertainty around his next move has become a growing talking point across European football.

Contract uncertainty clouds Vinicius Jr’s Madrid future

Vinicius’s deal with Real Madrid is set to expire next year, and talks over an extension have yet to reach a definitive conclusion. Despite developing into one of the club’s most influential attackers since arriving from Flamengo in 2018, reports over the past year have suggested the winger may have grown unsettled in Spain.

Much of that speculation stemmed from his relationship with former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, who was recently dismissed and replaced by Alvaro Arbeloa. While Vinicius is believed to be more receptive to renewing his contract following the managerial change, nothing has been finalized.

Arbeloa addressed the situation candidly, making it clear that negotiations are beyond his remit. He said: “It’s not up to me, it’s a matter for the club and the player. Of course, I hope he continues to make history here.”

Flamengo talk intensifies amid reunion rumors

Back in Brazil, Vinicius Jr’s former club Flamengo has been repeatedly linked with a potential reunion, with sporting director Jose Boto recently adding fuel to the speculation. He joked: "Next, we will talk to Vini Jr's staff. When does the contract end, president? We wouldn't need to pay Real Madrid anything!"

Those remarks sparked excitement among Flamengo supporters, but the club’s president has now offered a far more grounded assessment of the situation.

Flamengo president pours cold water on comeback hopes

Flamengo president Luiz Eduardo Baptista has openly downplayed the idea of Vinicius returning to Brazil anytime soon. Speaking to AS, he emphasized the financial and personal realities involved.

He said: "Vini isn't an option for Flamengo. I'm sure that if there were a transfer involving Vinicius Jr Junior, it would be a transfer with a salary, today, for values much higher than what we're considering for Paqueta. That possibility doesn't exist. Not yet. Flamengo can't do it yet."

Baptista also highlighted the contrasting life situations between Vinicius and former teammate Lucas Paqueta, noting that while both share a strong bond and history at Flamengo, their personal circumstances are vastly different.

While Flamengo have ruled themselves out for now, Vinicius Jr’s future remains firmly under the spotlight.