Real Madrid are reportedly lining up a blockbuster €100 million bid for Nigeria forward Victor Osimhen should contract talks with Vinícius Júnior fail to produce a renewal, according to Soccernet.ng.
Vinícius was Real’s talisman during the 2023/24 campaign that ended with a Champions League triumph over Borussia Dortmund. Individually he pushed for Ballon d’Or recognition, a race many commentators argued he deserved, only to finish behind Manchester City’s Rodri.
The arrival of Kylian Mbappé at the Santiago Bernabéu shifted the pecking order. After Mbappé’s high-profile transfer, Vinícius has seen his starring status challenged as the Frenchman increasingly commands the spotlight.
Xabi Alonso succeeded Carlo Ancelotti as head coach ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Mbappé missed large parts of that tournament through injury, which allowed Gonçalo García more minutes — yet Alonso has made it clear competition for places will intensify this season.
Despite the rotation, Vinícius has found himself benched at times and frequently substituted before the 70th minute, a pattern that has also affected Gonçalo García, Endrick and Rodrygo. Tensions bubbled during Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona, where Vinícius visibly showed his displeasure while playing strongly.
Alonso later said the winger apologised, but commentators and club observers suggest a disconnect is emerging between the coach and some senior players. Media analysis has repeatedly flagged concerns that Alonso is struggling to transmit his tactical ideas to large parts of the squad — a narrative that could prompt Madrid to explore marquee reinforcements should contract stalemates persist.