Vinicius Junior linked with PSG amidst growing tension with Xabi Alonso

Vinicius Junior is reportedly eyeing a move to Paris Saint-Germain as tension continues to grow between the Brazilian forward and Xabi Alonso.

The Brazilian rift with Alonso came to light after Sunday’s 2-1 El Clasico victory, when Vinicius reacted furiously to being substituted in the 72nd minute. Cameras caught him storming off and shouting: “Always me! I’m leaving the team! I’m leaving!”

Despite releasing a public apology to Real Madrid fans for his reaction, there are reports he wants to move on and his relationship with Alonso has broken beyond repair.

Vinicius feels “belittled and devalued” by Alonso’s approach and believes he is treated unfairly compared to Kylian Mbappe, the club’s marquee arrival and Florentino Perez’s new favourite.

Sources close to the dressing room claim several senior players have also grown frustrated with the coach’s strict rules, with one insider suggesting Alonso “thinks he’s Pep Guardiola.”

Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid protests following his replacement with Xabi Alonso. (Photo by Alberto Gardin/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Will Vinicius Junior join PSG?

According to Sport, PSG have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Vinicius should he leave Madrid. The attacker himself is said to be intrigued by the opportunity to play under Luis Enrique, whom he admires for his charisma and attacking philosophy.

The Brazilian reportedly believes Enrique’s fast-paced, high-pressing football would suit his strengths perfectly, and he has taken encouragement from the positive experiences that Neymar and Lionel Messi had under the Spanish tactician.

Despite previous Premier League and Saudi interest, PSG remains his preferred destination due to their Champions League pedigree and tactical style.

Vinicius contract with Madrid runs until June 2027, but the impasse over salary negotiations has given him leverage. It’s left to be seen if he’ll switch sides or mend his relationship with Alonso.

The 25-year-old has scored five goals and provided four assists in 10 La Liga appearances this season but has yet to find the net in the Champions League.