The relationship between Real Madrid's star forward Vinicius Junior and the club's supporters has hit a new low, with the Brazilian being subjected to boos and jeers during Sunday's La Liga match. The incident comes amid intense speculation linking the 25-year-old with a blockbuster move to the Premier League, with Arsenal and Chelsea named as leading suitors.
Bernabeu Boos for Under-Fire Star
During Real Madrid's commanding 5-1 victory over Real Betis on Sunday, the atmosphere turned sour for one of its own players. Vinicius Junior was substituted in the 77th minute after a 73-minute outing where he failed to score or provide an assist. His departure was met with audible disapproval from sections of the home crowd at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The reaction is understood to stem from a combination of factors. The Brazil international's form has dipped this season, with only five La Liga goals to his name and none since the start of October. This dry spell, coupled with a stalled contract renewal, has frustrated fans. His current deal expires in 2027, and reports from outlets like The Athletic suggest he has informed the club he will not sign an extension while Xabi Alonso remains head coach.
Alonso's Public Backing Amid Transfer Storm
Following the match, manager Xabi Alonso was directly questioned about the fan reaction towards Vinicius. He offered a firm defence of the player, aiming to calm the growing storm. "We're all mature, Vini is mature, and what we want is to show our highest level," Alonso stated. "He was, is, and will be very important for Real Madrid, and the fans will applaud him again, and give him ovations, I have no doubts."
When pressed on the swirling transfer rumours connecting Vinicius to England, Alonso praised the winger's performance against Betis. "Vini was excellent today, he really was. He started very strong, created differences, he got the right-back booked and taken off, he created chances. He is very important for us, and he'll be very important in the next games," the former midfielder added.
London Calling: The Premier League Pursuit
The speculation around Vinicius Junior's future is centred on a potential move to London. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City are all cited as realistic destinations for the forward. However, a transfer in the January window is considered complex due to the enormous finances involved.
Real Madrid are believed to value the player at around €150 million (£128m), a figure that could necessitate creative deal structures such as a loan with an obligation to buy. Separate reports indicate that Chelsea remain "huge admirers" and that a switch to the English capital would appeal to the player personally.
Since his arrival from Flamengo in 2018, Vinicius has been instrumental in Real Madrid's success, winning three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies. Whether he adds to that tally in Madrid or seeks a new challenge in the Premier League remains the dominant question of this transfer period.
