The most talked-about transfer storyline of 2026 has taken an unexpected and explosive turn.
Shortly after speculation linked him with a potential switch to Liverpool, fresh reports now suggest that Vinícius Júnior is preparing to leave Spain entirely, with Manchester United FC emerging as his preferred destination.
The dramatic shift in direction reportedly follows a heated UEFA Champions League encounter between Real Madrid CF and SL Benfica at the Estádio da Luz.
During the match, play was temporarily stopped amid allegations of racist abuse involving Benfica’s young talent Gianluca Prestianni.
While investigations into the incident continue, sources indicate that the episode may have marked a decisive emotional tipping point for the Brazilian winger.
According to reports, Vinícius has informed Madrid officials that he is increasingly disillusioned with his experience in La Liga and is seriously considering ending his time in Spanish football.
The 25-year-old has faced repeated incidents of hostility in recent seasons, and insiders claim the cumulative toll has left him mentally exhausted.
Despite public backing from high-profile teammates such as Kylian Mbappé and Trent Alexander-Arnold, the winger is said to feel that a fresh start abroad may be necessary for both his well-being and career progression.
The Premier League is reportedly viewed by Vinícius as an environment offering stronger institutional support and a culture he admires.
In particular, Manchester United under interim manager Michael Carrick is believed to appeal to him stylistically and philosophically.
Carrick’s emphasis on attacking fluidity and structured team cohesion is said to align with the Brazilian’s strengths as a dynamic, direct winger.
Financial backing appears unlikely to be an obstacle. Under the stewardship of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS sporting project, United are reportedly prepared to offer a staggering £375,000 per week to secure the forward’s signature.
Such a contract would place him among the highest earners in English football and signal United’s determination to reestablish themselves among Europe’s elite.
Speculation has also swirled around the possibility of Jude Bellingham being linked to any broader reshaping of United’s squad, though those rumors remain unconfirmed.
Additional names such as Federico Dimarco and Felix Nmecha have surfaced in connection with what could become one of the most ambitious rebuilds in recent football history.
If the move materializes, it would represent not only a monumental transfer but also a symbolic departure from Spanish football for one of its brightest stars.
For United, it could mark a defining statement of intent in 2026 — a declaration that the club is prepared to compete financially, structurally, and culturally at the highest level once again.
