Manchester United have locked horns with Chelsea and Manchester City for Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior
Manchester United have reportedly entered a high-stakes transfer battle, with Fichajes claiming the club is prepared to challenge both Chelsea and Manchester City for the signature of Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior.
Tension around the Brazilian’s future has grown in recent weeks, with contract negotiations at the Bernabéu appearing to have stalled. According to sources close to the club, Vinícius’ relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso has also cooled, creating further uncertainty. Madrid initially expected a straightforward renewal, but the forward is now said to be unsettled, concerned about his position and long-term role within the squad.
What is the situation surrounding the Brazilian?
Despite delivering a standout performance in Real Madrid’s recent 4–3 Champions League win over Olympiacos, Vinícius has seen his influence gradually reduced under Xabi Alonso. The head coach has trimmed his minutes, omitted him from major starting line-ups, and substituted him early in high-stakes matches.
As a result, the 25-year-old has reportedly informed the club that he is not ready to commit to a new contract. Madrid’s hierarchy had hoped to settle the issue quietly before transfer speculation intensified, but they now face the real prospect of losing one of their marquee attackers.
Although his contract runs until 2027, giving Los Blancos considerable leverage, interest from the Premier League has escalated. Manchester United believe he could reinvigorate their frontline, offering the pace, directness and big-game impact they have lacked in recent seasons.
Manchester United have locked horns with Chelsea and Manchester City for Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior.
Manchester United have entered the race with Chelsea and Manchester City for one of the best attackers in the world
United also value Vinícius’ big-match pedigree, particularly his decisive contributions in multiple Champions League finals. They see him as a long-term cornerstone capable of reshaping their attack for years to come. Chelsea, meanwhile, remain committed to their recruitment blueprint as they aim to re-establish themselves among Europe’s elite. Manchester City, with their financial strength and defined footballing structure, could arguably hold an advantage should they choose to intensify their pursuit.
What next for the Red Devils?
Despite their interest, Manchester United are fully aware of the financial barrier involved. Vinícius Júnior has a staggering €1 billion release clause, and sources indicate Real Madrid would only entertain offers exceeding €250 million. His substantial wage demands further complicate any potential deal, as does his underlying preference to remain in Madrid despite recent tensions. Under current financial fair play constraints, such a transfer borders on impossible.
United are expected to monitor the situation, but unless the player or the club publicly shift their stance in a dramatic way, a move appears highly unlikely. Even in the scenario of a Premier League switch, Vinícius may favour joining a more stable, trophy-ready project over Manchester United, where the path to consistent silverware remains uncertain.