Xabi Alonso points to Vinícius Júnior's replacement, he plays in LaLiga and is worth $90M

After the match at San Mamés, it seems that the relationship between Vinícius Júnior and Xabi Alonso is clearly improving. Their warm greeting after the Brazilian's substitution showed a calmer atmosphere following several truly tense weeks. That image brings reassurance, although the truth is that the future of "7" doesn't depend on his relationship with the coach, but on his contract renewal.

Florentino Pérez has been trying for months to secure Vinícius's continuity with an offer that matches his role in the sports project. The president keeps unwavering faith in his talent and considers him an essential piece for the coming years. That's why he already presented him with a very attractive proposal last summer, but negotiations have stalled due to the Brazilian's high salary demands.

Vinícius Júnior's contract renewal gets complicated and Xabi Alonso points to the replacement

Vinícius Júnior aims to have a salary close to what Cristiano Ronaldo once earned: an estimated figure of about €30 million ($32.6 million) per year. However, Florentino has already made it very clear to him that Real Madrid can't reach that figure. Therefore, despite both parties' desire to stay together, we can confirm that the agreement is still far from being reached.

In the absence of progress, the sports management has started to consider alternatives in case Vinícius Júnior leaves. The name that stands out the most is Nico Williams, whose recent development has made him one of the most decisive wingers in Spanish LaLiga. His profile fits perfectly with the squad concept Xabi Alonso has in mind for the coming seasons.

Nico Williams is the favorite if Vinícius Júnior doesn't renew the contract

Nico Williams was already closely monitored last summer by Real Madrid's technical staff due to his upward progression. His €90 million ($97.2 million) release clause is manageable for the club if they need an immediate replacement for the left wing. In addition, his dribbling ability and speed fit optimally into Xabi Alonso's offensive model.

Real Madrid's coach believes that Nico Williams can bring a different balance to the attack, especially if Vinícius Júnior leaves. The Basque winger's youth makes it easier for him to gradually fit into a long-term project that seeks sustainability and performance. For that reason, his name has become the first option if the renewal of "7" ultimately falls through.