Premier League sides Liverpool and Manchester United are among those on red alert after Vinicius Junior told La Liga giants Real Madrid he does not wish to renew his contract at the club while Xabi Alonso is in charge, reports the Mirror.
The Brazilian is growing increasingly disillusioned with life in the Spanish capital under the former Bayer Leverkusen boss, who came in as Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement over the summer.
Vinicius has scored five goals and provided a further four assists in Spain’s top tier this term.
However, he reacted angrily to being substituted in Real Madrid’s 2-1 El Clasico win over Barcelona last month, which has prompted speculation that he may look to leave the club in January.
'I’m leaving the team, it’s better if I leave'
After storming off the pitch, the Brazil international could be heard shouting: “Always me, I’m leaving the team, it’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.”
While the wide forward did apologise to club president Florentino Perez following the outburst, he reportedly made it known to the Real Madrid supremo that he doesn’t wish to extend his current deal at the club due to his relationship with Alonso.
Vinicius’ current deal expires in 2027 and talks over an extension started in January this year, but stalled after both player and club couldn’t reach an agreement.
The 25-year-old also posted a lengthy apology on social media over the incident in the narrow victory over Barcelona. Alonso was asked about the post, to which he replied: “Has Vinicius apologised to me? We had a meeting with everyone on Wednesday, and Vinicius was impeccable.
“He spoke honestly and was very good. For me, that settles the matter. It was a very valuable, very positive statement. He demonstrated his honesty; he spoke from the heart.
“What he said was the most important thing, and I was very satisfied. I've already said it, I was very proud and the matter was settled on Wednesday itself.”
That said, the versatile forward could be on the move in the New Year should Real Madrid opt to back Alonso rather than Vinicius.
Liverpool and Man Utd among potential Vini suitors
Liverpool and Manchester United have both previously been credited with an interest in Vinicius, and may potentially delve into the market for a new forward in the New Year.
The Reds are expected to prioritise Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo in January, with the Ghana international impressing for the Cherries this season.
Semenyo also has a £65m release clause in his contract that can be activated in January, though the Reds would face ample competition for his services.
United, too, are considering their attacking options with star forward Bryan Mbeumo expected to be called up to the Cameroon squad for AFCON next month.
