Vinicius Junior's contract saga has been a huge distraction for the player and Real Madrid this season. Even when the Brazilian winger refound form under Alvaro Arbeloa in recent weeks there was talk surrounding his future rather than what he was contributing in the present.
Recent reports suggest that Vinicius and Madrid both want a renewal to occur and that is most likely to happen at the end of the season. His current deal expires in the summer of 2027 which means he'll have a year left in June.
Vinicius needed to come to the fore and be Los Blancos' savior at the Estadio da Luz last night. But he was unable to build on an impressive run of form and was dissapointing in a 4-2 defeat to Benfica.
The loss to Jose Mourinho's side means Alvaro Arbeloa's men have to book their place in the last 16 of the Champions League through the playoffs. It also highlighted why Vinicius' contract demands are nonsensical given his overall performance this season.
Vinicius contract demands now look absurd
Vinicius is reportedly demanding a €30m per year salary to commit his future to the club. He is thought to have turned down an offer of €20m this time last year.
The 25-year-old had been in a sold position at the negotiating table given he has long-term interest from the Saudi Pro League. He could become one of the world's best players if he opted to head to the Middle East.
Madrid don't usually agree to bonus clauses in contracts which is another demand that the Brazilian has made. On the basis of last night's display in Portugal, he and his entourage need to rethink their proposals because he hasn't done enough to earn this amount of money.
Real Madrid must stick to their guns
Madrid can't cater to a player even of Vinicius' status and the club must insist on their own terms of an extension. Adding bonuses to a potential new deal should be completely ruled out and they have the winger's inconsistent performances this season to point out to his camp.
There's no doubt Vinicius has been a massive success at the Bernabeu and continues to be one of the most important players. But these past few months haven't been one that reflect well on him or his idea of such an expensive contract renewal.
Vinicius went 18 games without scoring until he netted in a 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana final earlier this month. He's appeared 32 times across competitions, registering seven goals and 11 assists.