Vinicius Junior signals intent amid contract stand-off

Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior has kicked off 2026 with a bold declaration of loyalty, potentially cooling rumors of a summer exit. Posting on Instagram on New Year’s Day, the Brazilian winger shared an image of himself clutching a Madrid shirt with the caption: "Let it be an incredible year!!! 2026. Hala Madrid always! I love you."

This public display of affection comes at a pivotal moment, as both parties prepare for what sources describe as an "intense negotiation" period over the coming months. While a preliminary agreement was reached last spring, contract talks hit a stalemate after the player’s representatives raised their demands to reflect his status as a global icon.

The crux of the dispute lies in the financial pecking order at the Santiago Bernabéu. While Florentino Pérez is willing to make Vinicius the second-highest earner at the club, the player’s agents are reportedly holding out for a salary package that matches the terms handed to Kylian Mbappé.

The 2025 season was a testing one for the forward, whose dip in form led to sporadic whistles from the demanding Bernabéu crowd before the Christmas break. However, those close to the board insist that the club’s priority remains retaining their talismanic winger, despite the current administrative deadlock.

Ultimately, the issue isn't whether Vinicius wants to stay, but the specific conditions under which he remains a Galáctico. With the world watching, this social media olive branch suggests that despite the underwhelming form of late, his heart—and perhaps his future—remains firmly rooted in the Spanish capital.