Vinicius Junior is closer than ever to leaving Real Madrid with his contract expiring in the summer of 2027. The Brazilian attacker has endured a frustrating season, failing to find the back of the net in his last 18 outings.
While Xabi Alonso has publicly supported Vinicius, there are reportedly growing doubts about his future at the Estadio Bernabeu. The club and the player want a renewal, but the situation is turning into a lengthy saga, and the more it drags on, the less confident both parties will feel about agreeing on a new deal.
Chelsea are the club whose name has been mostly linked with the 25-year-old recently. It's claimed that the Blues have ruled out a move for him 'for now' which seems to suggest they still have him on their radar.
Real Madrid could turn to Chelsea for Vinicius replacement
Vinicius has become one of the world's best wingers and another Brazilian to shine in Madrid colors. He's followed in the footsteps of Ronaldo Nazario and Roberto Carlos, making history at the Bernabeu including a winner in the 2022 Champions League final.
But there is a new Selecao star emerging in Europe and that's who Los Blancos should consider if Chelsea come in for their left-winger this summer.
Estevao was on Madrid's wishlist in 2024 before the Premier League giants eventually sealed a €34 million deal to sign him from Palmeiras. He offically arrived at Stamford Bridge in the summer and has already become a fan favorite.
The 18-year-old has yet to be trusted with a permanent starting role but he has caught the eye with dazzling displays. That includes a wonderful goal in a 3-0 win over Barcelona in the Champions League.
According to Defensa Central, there is frustration among the higher-ups at the Bernabeu over missing out on Estevao. They regret leaving the race for the Brazilian wonderkid who has bagged five goals and one assist in 24 games across competitions.
That's why if it is Chelsea who come in for Vinicius that could re-ignite interest in Estevao. He is rated as one of Europe's most exciting prospects and many believe he could rival Barca's Lamine Yamal in years to come.
A potential swap deal could be a possibility
Vinicius has already shown he is a Ballon d'Or-worthy talent during his time at Madrid. Estevao is just getting started at Chelsea, and thus, they are at different stages of their careers.
But if Los Blancos enter negotiations with the Blues over Vinicius they could consider asking for his compatriot in return. Both clubs will obviously feel their winger is worth more than the other taking into consideration various factors.
Transfermarkt currently has Vinicius valued at €150 million while Estevao's price tag is €80 million. But the clubs will likely take different stances over such fees.
One of those is that Vinicius will have a year left on his contract unlike Estevao who is tied to the Stamford Bridge outfit until 2033. But the West Londoners might be enticed by the Madrid man's star power and their owners have made several decisions with the club's commercial side in mind.