There’s a storm quietly brewing at the Santiago Bernabeu. As Real Madrid continues to solidify its dominance in Europe, club president Florentino Perez is working behind the scenes on what could become one of the most electrifying forward partnerships in soccer history. The long-term vision? Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland together in the famous white shirt. But for that dream to come to life, Real Madrid may need to sacrifice two of their own brightest stars — Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
According to Cadena SER and El Journal del Real, Perez has kept the Haaland option alive despite the Norwegian’s long-term deal with Manchester City. Internally, the Whites never ruled out bringing him in — the idea of forming a frontline with Mbappe and Haaland has been discussed at the highest level.
“The dream of the president is to bring together Haaland and Mbappe in Madrid. If the opportunity arises, the club will not hesitate,” adds Mundo Deportivo. The logic is simple: combine the two most prolific forwards of their generation and usher in a new era of dominance.
But a dream that big comes with a price — and not just financially.
The Vinicius conundrum
What started as a routine contract extension for Vinicius Junior has now become one of the most complex negotiations at the club. The Brazilian, whose contract runs until 2027, is demanding $35 million per year, along with a sizable renewal bonus. That figure would make him the highest-paid player at Real Madrid, surpassing even Mbappe, who only arrived last summer.
Los Blancos, however, are holding firm. “The club will not disrupt the wage structure — even for Vinicius,” stated Defensa Central. While acknowledging his importance, Los Blancos refuse to set a financial precedent that could impact future deals with stars like Jude Bellingham.
As of now, Vinicius has two years left on his deal, but if no agreement is reached by the summer of 2026, a sale becomes likely. And the Saudi Pro League is waiting in the wings, reportedly willing to offer $1.1 billion over five years, along with a $404 million transfer fee.
Rodrygo also in the spotlight
Alongside Vinicius, Rodrygo Goes may also find himself on the move. While he has not demanded a pay rise, his place in the squad could be sacrificed if the club needs to make room financially and tactically for Haaland.
Diario AS states that Tottenham have formally requested permission to open negotiations with the 24-year-old. Spurs view Rodrygo as the ideal long-term replacement for Son Heung-min, and although the Brazilian wants to stay, he is reportedly open to a move if he can choose the right destination.
The Haaland equation
Erling Haaland remains the centerpiece of this evolving plan. The 25-year-old striker has scored 124 goals in 146 appearances for Manchester City and continues to be linked with a move to Spain. Although his release clause reportedly only becomes active in 2029, Los Blancos reportedly believe a deal could be negotiated earlier, especially if the player expresses a desire to join.
Agent Rafaela Pimenta has a track record of securing her clients’ flexible futures, and Madrid is banking on Haaland’s long-standing interest in La Liga to turn the tide.
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