Vinícius Jr. agrees new 6-year deal to stay at Real Madrid

Vinicius Jr has signed a contract extension with Real Madrid that will keep him at the club through June 2032, the Spanish club announced on Thursday.

Vinicius Junior (L) of Real Madrid scores a goal during the La Liga football match between Real Madrid and Villarreal in Madrid, Spain, on Oct. 5, 2024. (Photo by Gustavo Valiente/Xinhua)

"Real Madrid C. F. and Vinicius Jr. have agreed on the extension of our player's contract, which links him to the club until June 30, 2032," the club said in a statement.

The Brazil forward has made 375 appearances for Madrid, scoring 128 goals while helping the club win 14 trophies, including three UEFA Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns.

The extension ends months of speculation over Vinicius' future. Spanish media had linked the 26-year-old with a possible move away from Madrid, with reports of interest from Premier League champion Arsenal.

The announcement came just hours after Madrid confirmed the signing of Cote d'Ivoire winger Yan Diomande for a reported club-record fee of around 140 million euros (161.5 million U.S. dollars), including add-ons.

Vinicius is expected to remain a key part of Madrid's attack alongside Kylian Mbappe, Bernardo Silva and Diomande as the club prepares for the new season. However, the strengthened forward line could increase speculation over the futures of Endrick and Brahim Diaz before the transfer window closes.