Real Madrid could part ways with key superstar in 2026 with Premier League goal-machine lined up as replacement

According to SPORT, it has come to light that Real Madrid are prepared to make a bold decision in 2026 if contract talks with Vinicius Jr. remain unresolved. 

The Spanish giants could put the Brazilian forward on the market should both sides fail to find an agreement by then. 

Sources claim that a preliminary agreement between the two parties has now collapsed. The 25-year-old winger has since attempted to reopen discussions in an effort to reduce friction, but the main obstacle continues to be financial. 

Real Madrid refusing to meet demands

Vinicius is demanding a net salary of around €25 million per season over a five-year deal, a figure Real Madrid are unwilling to meet. 

If no deal is reached by next summer, Madrid are ready to explore offers for the Brazilian, even if that means taking a financial hit. 

Despite acknowledging his importance, the club does not view Vinicius as untouchable. 

Real Madrid would go for Haaland if Vinicius leaves. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

In fact, they aim to avoid a scenario where he could leave for free in 2027 when his current contract expires.

Haaland lined up as potential replacement

Should Vinicius leave, Real Madrid’s Plan is already clear. The club would reignite their long-standing interest in Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland. 

The striker has been a top target for Florentino Perez for several years, and his strong bond with Jude Bellingham could play a crucial role in convincing him to join.

Haaland’s agent, Rafaela Pimienta, enjoys a solid relationship with Real Madrid and has previously indicated that the forward’s move to the Santiago Bernabeu would depend on either Vinicius or Kylian Mbappe leaving the squad.

Financially, the move would not be impossible. Haaland’s market value stands around €180 million – an amount that could be funded through the potential sale of Vinicius. 

For now, Real Madrid’s stance is that they want to keep Vinicius, but not at any cost. He remains a key figure in the project, yet the club are prepared to act decisively if renewal talks continue to stall.