Can Manchester City Secure Vinicius Junior? A Look at the Potential Summer Transfer

Translation result

[MyDaily reporter Noh Chan-hyeok] Manchester City is reportedly weighing a move for Real Madrid superstar Vinícius Júnior.

Vinícius arrived at Real in the 2018–19 season and has matured into a world-class left winger thanks to blistering pace and slick dribbling.

He played a key role in Real’s UEFA Champions League victories in 2021–22 and 2023–24, and was named FIFA Player of the Year in 2024.

Despite reported tensions with former coach Xabi Alonso this season, Vinícius has remained Real’s primary attacking threat, finishing the campaign with 20 goals and 11 assists across official competitions. Real have been in talks to extend a contract that runs through 2027.

However, talks on a new deal have hit a snag. Reports suggest Vinícius is seeking a near-doubling of his current €17 million-a-year salary (approximately 29 billion KRW; €17 million ≈ $18.19 million, 29 billion KRW ≈ $21.75 million) — a demand that has stalled negotiations.

Manchester City has moved to exploit the situation. On May 8, GiveMeSport reported that City are seriously considering a blockbuster summer bid to land Real’s star.

City is planning a squad overhaul this summer. With Bernardo Silva and John Stones confirmed to be leaving, the club is prioritizing attacking reinforcements and has placed Vinícius squarely on its shortlist.

Real, meanwhile, have not ruled out selling him. GiveMeSport says the club informed Vinícius that if no new contract is signed before the transfer window closes, they could move to sell him this summer.

The outlet added that club officials still see a renewal as possible, but City’s pursuit is aggressive. If the right fee arrives, Real could be persuaded to let him go.

Most Read

• Bada says external agency handled memorial-service promotion performance; denies involvement in content [Official]

• ‘June wedding’ Moon Chae-won finally addresses fiancé’s identity — he’s not a younger dermatologist

• ‘Wild 161 km/h!’ Could the first Korean-born MLB closer win the saves title? 11 saves in 18 games