Vinicius Jr stands firm on image rights as Real Madrid issues final contract ultimatum

Abdullateef Fowewe

Real Madrid winger, Vinicius Junior is refusing to lower his contract demands, with image rights emerging as the primary sticking point beyond base wages in ongoing Real Madrid renewal talks.

Real Madrid currently owns about 50% of Vini Jr.’s image rights from his 2022 deal, allowing the club to profit significantly from his extensive sponsorship portfolio that includes Nike, Pepsi, and Gatorade.

This arrangement has become a major friction point as the Brazilian forward seeks stronger commercial terms that better reflect his global market value following his rise to become one of the world’s premier wingers.

According to MARCA, Real Madrid has issued a final “take it or leave it” contract offer to Vinicius Jr., stating they will not increase it further, with the decision now up to the player.

The club’s latest proposal reportedly offers up to €30 million net annually with performance bonuses included, making him the highest earner at the Bernabéu if accepted.

Madrid has told Vinicius’ agents they want him to stay but the latest contract offer is final, renew now or face a sale this summer, with reduced playing time if he remains without signing a new deal.

Vinicius enters the final year of his contract, which expires in June 2027, with stalled talks over salary—the player is seeking around €20 million net annually versus the club’s current position, though newer reports suggest the gap has narrowed with Madrid’s €30m ceiling offer.

Reported interest from Arsenal has intensified the situation, with the Premier League champions exploring a potential move should negotiations collapse.

Despite the external interest, Real Madrid remains confident Vinicius will ultimately stay, even as the player has expressed a desire to “feel loved” by the club amid the protracted talks.

The stance aligns with Marca’s reporting on the club’s refusal to break its wage structure for any player, as new arrivals like Yan Diomande increase squad competition under manager Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho has reportedly told the club he wants all his big names to stay, opposing any potential sale this summer.

With no new round of negotiations expected, Madrid is prepared to open the door to a sale rather than risk losing Vinicius for free in 2027 if he rejects the current offer.