Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr wants to develop more at Flamengo

Real Madrid signed Vinicius Junior, the pearl of Flamengo, for 45 million euros when he was 16 years old. Both parties agreed to the transfer of the rights of the player as of July 2018, the date at which he will be of legal age. "Vinicius will remain at his current club until July 2019," read an official statement from the European champions on 23 May 2017, "although he will be able to play for Real Madrid earlier than that if both clubs agree," it clarified.

Vinicius Madrid move date TBC

It seems that bringing the youngster to the Santiago Bernabéu earlier than originally planned is exactly what Madrid intend to do. Their transfer road map aims to make Vinicius the first signing of 2018.

"He is ready to make the leap," they say in the corridors of decision making at the Madrid club. However, the player would prefer to stay at Flamengo as agreed allowing him to keep developing.

"My plan is to continue with Flamengo and mature enough, to help with the whole season. I don't know how it will turn out, but if it were up to me I would stay at Flamengo to help everyone who always helped me. I have a lot to give," said the 17-year-old striker talking to Globoesporte after scoring the winning goal against Cabofriense.

Shining star Vinicius making headlines

Vinicius, who wore the iconic shirt '10' with Flamengo, shone in the first match he played after his holiday that included a trip to Madrid to engage with his next club. He played on the right, a position that is not normal for him, but he worked the role with ease:

"I prefer to play on the left, but I felt very good," said the forward. His showing got plenty of coverage in Spanish and other European media but Vinicius prefers to isolate himself away from that.

"I don't notice it much. I see the repercussions more from my private messages."

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