Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League on alert: How Florentino Perez’s Kylian Mbappe dream-come-true could cost Vinicius’ future at Real Madrid

When Kylian Mbappe finally walked through the doors of the Santiago Bernabeu, Florentino Perez’s long-awaited dream became reality. The Frenchman’s arrival was hailed as a new era for Los Blancos, but not everyone inside the dressing room has been celebrating without reservation. Vinicius Junior, the Brazilian winger once billed as Real Madrid’s next great leader, now finds himself at the center of a storm. With Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Pro League monitoring every development, Real Madrid faces a delicate battle to keep one of its biggest stars.

Vinicius’ future has been under discussion since late 2024, when the club opened negotiations for a new deal. But despite months of talks, nothing has been finalized. The Brazilian still has two years left on his contract, but delays and disagreements have raised tensions.

Reports earlier this year claimed that Vinicius even held talks with Saudi Pro League representatives in February, listening to their eye-watering proposals. By March, optimism grew that he was close to committing his long-term future to Madrid. Yet, as of autumn 2025, no agreement has been signed. The sticking point? Wages.

According to Diario AS, the Brazilian star is demanding wage parity with Kylian Mbappe, who currently stands as the club’s highest earner. The 25-year-old winger reportedly asked to earn around $35 million, including bonuses, nearly three times his current package.

What seemed close to resolution after the FIFA Club World Cup collapsed during a so-called “final meeting.” As reported by Diario AS, Vinicius even lowered his salary expectations significantly—“probably five times greater than the club’s effort to raise their initial offer”. But Los Blancos still refused to meet him halfway.

This deadlock has created the most serious doubts yet about his future. With his contract running until 2027, Madrid isn’t panicking, but the window for a lucrative sale or extension is closing. By next summer, the Spanish giant will be forced into a decision.

Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe (L) and Vinicius Junior (R) celebrate goal during La Liga match. November 9, 2024.