New Vinicius Jr racism storm strengthens major transfer claim

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 22 May 2023 15:40 BST
• 3 min read

The shocking scenes of Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Jr being racially abused in a 1-0 defeat against Valencia on Sunday have gone around the world and have fuelled the suggestion that the 22-year-old Brazil international could leave LaLiga.

As the player was at pains to point out on social media after he was sent off – an act that could potentially end his season if it is not repealed – this is not the first time that he has suffered in such a manner.

Indeed, following the previous racism storm that centred around the former Flamengo player, his agent dropped a bombshell that will be of interest to Manchester United, Chelsea and other Premier League clubs.

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In an interview with the Telegraph, Frederico Pena said: “I can’t really see [a move] happening right now – but who knows: these things change in football and there’s things you would never imagine seeing that happen. I would just say if he were to leave Real Madrid someday, it would make no sense for it to be somewhere other than the Premier League.”

Pena did go on to say that Vini Jr is the “kind of player who stays at one club” for “15-plus” years, but these latest incidents raise further questions over his long-term future at Real Madrid.

Indeed, following the incidents at Mestalla, there have been fresh links between the player and clubs such as Man Utd and Chelsea, who would love to sign a player of his calibre.

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Vinicius Jr wants ‘to beat racism’

Fabrizio Romano, meanwhile, reports that Vinicius Jr, who has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €105 million, is “absolutely not” considering leaving Real Madrid for the moment.

“The feeling of those close to Vini is that he only wants to stay and beat racism in Spain,” the Italian reports.

Vinicius has been well supported on social media by his fellow professionals, all of whom have backed him after these latest ugly scenes, while other celebrities, such as F1 driver Lewis Hamilton have sent messages of solidarity.

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