Real Madrid face 'uphill battle' to tie down Vinicius Junior to new contract as Manchester United wait in wings - Euro Transfer News
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Published 21/07/2026 at 17:01 GMT+1
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In Tuesday's Euro Transfer News, we lead with Real Madrid's attempts to renew Vinicius Junior's contract reaching an impasse, with financial differences reportedly preventing an agreement, despite both sides wanting to continue together.
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The Brazilian forward is under contract in the Spanish capital until 2027, and fresh talks are expected after he returns from his summer holidays.
According to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Real Madrid are willing to increase Vinicius's net salary from just under €15 million (£12.8m) to around €20m (£17.1m) per season, but states: "The positions of both parties, particularly on financial terms, remain far apart."
The club are unwilling to meet the player's demand for a substantial signing bonus, which would bring his overall earnings close to those of Kylian Mbappe.
Mundo Deportivo describe the stand-off as an "uphill battle", but add that Vinicius has repeatedly expressed his desire to remain at the Bernabeu, while club president Florentino Perez has taken a leading role in the negotiations in an effort to reach an agreement.
Even so, discussions are currently at a standstill, and if no breakthrough is made, the situation could become increasingly complicated.
From January, Vinicius would be free to negotiate with overseas clubs ahead of a potential free transfer when his contract expires in the summer.
While Real are determined to avoid that outcome, the report claims some within the club would be open to selling the Brazilian during this transfer window if no agreement can be reached.
For now, however, the report claims that Madrid have received no formal offers for Vinicius, despite ongoing speculation linking him with clubs in Saudi Arabia and Manchester United.
World Cup hero Torres heading to PSG?
Paris Saint-Germain have intensified their interest in Barcelona forward Ferran Torres, while Real Madrid are also closely monitoring the Spain international's situation following his match-winning performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina.
According to French newspaper L'Equipe, PSG have outlined their sporting project to the 26‑year‑old, with Luis Enrique said to be an admirer of his profile and the role he could play in Paris.
With Torres' contract running until 2027 and renewal talks with Barcelona reportedly at a standstill, several of Europe's elite clubs are said to have explored the possibility of a move this summer.
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Despite the growing interest, L'Equipe says Torres remains settled at Barcelona, where he enjoys a strong relationship with head coach Hansi Flick and has consistently expressed his desire to succeed at the club.
However, the French publication reports that the forward has had little contact with sporting director Deco in recent months, fuelling uncertainty over his long-term future.
PSG are understood to be planning a refresh of their attacking options following Gonçalo Ramos' departure to AC Milan, with Ferran's ability to play across the front line making him an ideal fit.
The Ligue 1 champions have yet to submit a formal offer, preferring to wait until the immediate aftermath of the World Cup has passed before making their move.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, are also keeping tabs on the situation, L'Equipe adds. Los Blancos previously attempted to sign Ferran during his Valencia days before he opted to join Manchester City, and Barcelona's reported €50m valuation could now rise after the Spaniard's World Cup-winning heroics.
Will Perez block Rodri's wish to join Madrid?
Manchester City midfielder Rodri "dreams" of playing for Real Madrid, although any potential move remains complicated by the stance of club president Florentino Perez - that's according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Spain international, who was named Player of the Tournament after helping his country lift the World Cup trophy in North America this summer, is also weighing up a lucrative new contract offer from City with his current deal due to expire next year.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said: "At the moment, Rodri has a new contract proposal on the table from Manchester City.
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"It will now be up to Rodri to decide whether he wants to accept it or remain at Man City for one more season before potentially leaving as a free agent in 2027."
He added: "Rodri dreams of playing for Real Madrid. He would love to join them one day. From the player's side, that opportunity remains a dream."
According to Romano, the desire to return to the Spanish capital is genuine, despite Rodri having come through Atletico Madrid's academy.
"He came through the youth system at Atletico, so returning to Madrid, returning to Spain, and playing for Real Madrid is something he would love," Romano explained.
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Laporte lined up as Cubarsi partner at Barca
Could another Spanish World Cup winner be on the move?
Barcelona are exploring a move for Aymeric Laporte after the centre-back impressed in North America, where he emerged as one of the standout defenders in partnership alongside team-mate Pau Cubarsi in the heart of the champions' back-line.
According to Spanish publication SPORT, Barcelona are planning to contact Laporte's representatives in the coming days to assess his situation and determine whether a summer move could be possible.
The 32-year-old returned to Athletic Club from Saudi Pro League outfit Al Nassr last September, but Barcelona believe there is still plenty of value in bringing the former Manchester City defender to the Camp Nou.
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Pau Cubarsi and Aymeric Laporte could soon partner each other for club and country
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"The club believe that he still has several seasons of top-level performance ahead of him and especially value his experience, leadership, and ability to play out from the back," AS writes.
The report continues that Laporte is viewed as an attractive option due to his left-footed profile, experience, leadership qualities and relatively low cost, with his release clause said to be below €15m (£12.8m).
Barcelona sporting director Deco has followed Laporte's performances closely throughout the tournament and is believed to be impressed by the defender's composure, passing ability and defensive reliability.
His partnership with Cubarsi was one of Spain's strengths during their World Cup triumph, further strengthening the club's interest.
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Man Utd keep watch on Sarr
Manchester United have reportedly made enquiries about Crystal Palace winger Ismaila Sarr as the Senegal international's reputation continues to grow, following a standout season at club level and an impressive World Cup campaign.
Sarr enjoyed the finest season of his career with Crystal Palace, helping the club secure the UEFA Conference League title while finishing as their leading scorer in the competition with nine goals. His performances earned him Player of the Tournament recognition and attracted attention from several major European clubs.
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The 28-year-old carried that form onto the international stage with Senegal, delivering a series of influential displays at the 2026 World Cup and scoring four goals during the tournament. His consistency has further increased his appeal in the transfer market, with elite clubs now monitoring his situation.
According to French publication Foot Mercato, United are among the clubs to have contacted Sarr's representatives, although the winger is not currently considered the club's primary target for strengthening their attack. United's recruitment team is continuing to assess several options before deciding whether to make a formal move.
However, the player's personal connection to the club could prove significant. Sarr has previously revealed that United are his dream team, a factor that could influence negotiations should the Premier League giants decide to step up their interest in the coming weeks.
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