Vinicius Junior drops Real Madrid exit hint in message after Liverpool news
Vinicius Junior has hinted that he could be set to leave Real Madrid next year, with several Premier League clubs circling.
Manchester City are the favourites to sign Vinicius Jr, with Pep Guardiola keen to add further world-class talent to his front line.
The Citizens are also likely best placed to deal with the financial commitments, in terms of both transfer fee and wages.
But Vinicius Jr has also been linked with Liverpool, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah.
Salah was involved in a public fall-out with Arne Slot, and could be set to leave Anfield in the winter transfer window.
Vinicius Junior takes action after fan reception
Xabi Alonso appeared on the brink of the sack at Real Madrid, after his side lost consecutive matches to Celta Vigo and Manchester City.
The last week has been positive for the Spaniard, however, with Los Blancos earning victories over Deportivo, Talvera CFC and Sevilla on Saturday.
Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe were on the score sheet for the home side, but fan disgruntlement remained all the same.
| Vinicius Jr | vs Sevilla |
| Minutes played | 83 |
| Chances created (big) | 2 (1) |
| Successful dribbles | 6 |
| Duels won | 10/13 |
| Was fouled | 3 |
Vinicius Jr was whistled by the home fans as he substituted, despite a seemingly strong performance.
The winger completed more dribbles than any other player on the pitch, created a big chance and won 10 duels.
Following the game, the 25-year-old took to Instagram to post a picture accompanied with a caption that just included an ellipsis.
In addition, Vinicius Jr changed his profile picture from one of him wearing a Real Madrid shirt, to one of him playing for Brazil.
Perhaps an innocent change, but speculation linking the forward with a move away has only been fuelled by his latest display of frustration.
Vinicius Jr exit appears inevitable after comments captured
According to The Athletic, Vinicius Jr told Real Madrid in November that he would not renew his contract while his relationship with Alonso remains strained.
After he was substituted by the Spaniard in a game against Barcelona in October, the forward was captured shouting: “Always me, I’m leaving the team, it’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.”
And Saturday’s events appear to have only placed a further strain on a relationship that has clearly broken down.
Manchester City and Liverpool will be keeping a close eye on further developments ahead of the winter transfer window, with the likelihood of a move for Vinicius Jr gathering momentum.
The Brazil international’s attitude has been questioned, but he undoubtedly remains among the very best talents in world football.