Real Madrid have reportedly been left to question Vinicius Jr's commitment levels amid links to Manchester United and Chelsea.
The 24-year-old has endured a difficult week in footballing terms, starting in late October when he learned that Rodri of Manchester City had clinched the 2024 Balon d'Or.
Following a mesmerizing 2023-24 campaign in which he lifted La Liga and the Champions League at Wembley, Vinicius was widely expected to collect the award.
Prior to that surprise development on the Saturday evening, the Brazilian had suffered his heaviest defeat of the season to date.
Carlo Ancelotti's side were silenced on their own turf by arch rivals Barcelona, with a Robert Lewandowski brace - prior to strikes from Lamine Yamal and Raphinha - securing a four-goal success for Hansi Flick's troops.
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Real Madrid's relationship with Vinicius strained?
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, the relationship between Real Madrid and star player Vinicius has entered a difficult moment following a tough week for both parties.
The report claims that the 24-year-old could be set to review his sporting priorities following his failure to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or in October.
It is understood that Vinicius has a big-money offer on the table from the Saudi Pro League, who are once again aiming to lure some of the sport's biggest players away from the European ecosystem.
As well as a switch to the Middle East, the Brazilian has also been linked to Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea by Relevo.
Vinicius's contract at the Santiago Bernabeu expires during the summer of 2027 and contains an eye-watering £840m termination clause.
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Vini's immediate future
Highly unlikely to depart Real Madrid before the conclusion of the 2024-25 term, Vinicius will be fully focused on regaining Spanish and European crowns as part of Ancelotti's juggernaut of a club side.
He has commenced the domestic term in impressive style, scoring five times and providing four assists across 11 La Liga matches.
The former Flamengo youngster has also stepped up on the continental stage, bagging a hat-trick during the 5-2 win in the Champions League over Borussia Dortmund on October 22.
Carter White
