The Brazilian team signal long-term ambition with open invitation to the Real Madrid forward
Flamengo have publicly confirmed their interest in bringing Vinícius Júnior back to the club, with senior figures acknowledging that any return would only be possible once his contract with Real Madrid expires in the summer of 2027.
The winger remains tied to Real Madrid for another two seasons, but the conversation around a future homecoming has intensified in Brazil, particularly regarding the club where he began his career.
Flamengo, buoyed by recent sporting success and growing financial strength, see Vinícius as a potential cornerstone of an already ambitious project.
The club’s football director, José Boto, has made little effort to hide that desire. Speaking to Globoesporte, Boto openly addressed the situation and stressed that the decision would ultimately rest with the player himself.
“His contract is coming to an end, he sent me a nice gift, an autographed jersey,” Boto said.
“For players like him, you can only fight for them when they really want to come. It depends more on Vini than on us (laughs). The doors are always open for Vini.”
Flamengo banking on timing and financial strength
Boto had already touched on the subject during the presentation of Lucas Paquetá, another high-profile name added to Flamengo’s squad for €42 million from West Ham United as part of their recent rebuild. On that occasion, he again pointed to the contractual reality surrounding Vinícius.
“Lucas Paquetá‘s staff is here. Then we’ll talk about Vini Jr. (…) The contract is ending, we won’t have to pay anything to Real Madrid,” he said.
Flamengo’s confidence has been boosted by a hugely successful 2025, in which the club collected several trophies and significantly strengthened its financial position.
That success has allowed the Rio de Janeiro side to think bigger, both domestically and in terms of attracting elite Brazilian players back from Europe.
Interest from Saudi Arabia
While Vinícius remains a central figure at Real Madrid, his recent spell has not been without turbulence. A dip in form has led to frustration among sections of the Bernabéu crowd, resulting in boos that have not gone unnoticed in Brazil.
Though there is no indication of an imminent exit, those moments have added context to the growing speculation about his long-term future.
Beyond Flamengo, Vinícius’ name has also surfaced in discussions involving Saudi Arabia. However, those links appear speculative rather than concrete.
Esteve Calzada, chief executive of Al Hilal, addressed the rumours while distancing his club from any direct involvement.
“In our case, there have been no talks, but every time he is asked, the CEO of the Saudi league says that if he is available, he will try to sign him,” Calzada said.