It is no secret that the left winger spot has been a problem for Chelsea since Eden Hazard departed for Real Madrid in the summer of 2019, after seven glorious years at Stamford Bridge. The club have brought in several wingers since then but have never been able to replace the Belgian icon. Now, could they try to sign one of Los Blancos' best in order to try and finally fill the void?
Vinicius Jr was involved in controversy recently for his reaction towards being substituted by Xabi Alonso in the recent El Clasico, which Real Madrid won by a 2-1 scoreline against Barcelona. There have been rumours about dissatisfaction for a while though.
Vinicius' current deal with Real Madrid runs out in the summer of 2027. So, if an extension is not agreed soon, the club might have no other choice but to find him a new home rather than risk losing him for nothing.
Interestingly, it looks like the club have their eyes on the Brazilian winger who came so close to winning the Ballon d'Or last year. As reported by The Chelsea Chronicle, the Blues are monitoring the situation of Vinicius at Real Madrid. Graeme Bailey said:
"Come next summer, if he’s only got a year left, we’re not talking £200m. I wouldn’t necessarily rule Chelsea out of that equation. I think he’ll sign a new deal, but he’s clearly not happy.
“Keep an eye on Vini Jr. Chelsea are one of the ones who have looked at him before, and he’s on their radar."
Blockbuster Vinicius Jr to Chelsea transfer news drops
There is believed to be interest in Vinicius from the Saudi Pro League as well. But he might not be eager to go there in his prime on the pitch.
That would mean that only a handful of clubs in world football would be capable of signing him. Chelsea would fall under that category.
Admittedly, the club have stayed away from chasing big-name signings under the new ownership. But if this season proves to be a failure as well, which is looking increasingly likely, it will be four years without any real progress. And sooner or later, one would imagine that Boehly-Clearlake would have to change its strategy.
What better way to do than by signing a superstar like Vinicius? Of course, there are a lot of ifs and buts in this situation right now. So, we need to wait and watch how this plays out over the next several months.