Real Madrid Transfer News: Lunin, Konate, Vinicius Jr, Diaz & More - July 20, 2025

Real Madrid Transfer News: A Shifting Landscape on July 20, 2025

Real Madrid's summer transfer window continues to be a hotbed of activity, with significant developments surrounding key players and potential new arrivals. As of July 20, 2025, the club is navigating complex contract negotiations, eyeing defensive reinforcements, and considering the futures of several squad members.1

Contract Conundrums: Vinicius Jr. and Brahim Diaz

One of the most pressing issues for Real Madrid is the stalled contract talks with star forward Vinicius Jr. The 24-year-old Brazilian's current deal runs until 2027, but negotiations for an extension have hit an impasse, primarily due to financial demands.2 Vinicius Jr. is reportedly seeking a salary that would make him the highest-paid player at the club, even surpassing Kylian Mbappé.3 Real Madrid, however, is unwilling to break their wage structure to meet these demands.4

Reports from AS and El Debate suggest that Real Madrid has issued an ultimatum: Vinicius Jr. must sign a new contract by June 2026, or the club will look to sell him to avoid losing him on a free transfer in 2027.5 While a massive €1 billion offer from the Saudi Pro League was previously rumored, that particular deal is now reportedly off the table.6 Despite the contractual standoff, Vinicius Jr. has consistently expressed his desire to stay at Real Madrid for his entire career, suggesting that talks will likely continue throughout the season.7 The club's hierarchy remains firm on maintaining financial stability, and the coming months will be crucial in determining the Brazilian's long-term future at the Bernabéu.

In contrast, the situation with Brahim Diaz appears much more settled. Multiple reports, including from Fabrizio Romano, indicate that Diaz is set to sign a new contract with Real Madrid.8 This agreement is reportedly finalized and awaiting formal announcement, which is expected to follow Thibaut Courtois's new two-year deal. Diaz, who has impressed since returning from his loan spell at AC Milan in 2023, is seen as an important player for Los Blancos, and his extension reflects the club's faith in his contributions. This comes despite earlier speculation that he might find minutes hard to come by with new signings. His versatility and attacking prowess are clearly valued by the coaching staff.

Defensive Pursuits: Konate and Beyond

Real Madrid's defensive line is an area of keen interest in the transfer market, with Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate prominently linked.9 The French international center-back has just one year remaining on his contract with Liverpool, making him an attractive prospect for Los Blancos. Real Madrid has reportedly made inquiries and is "working on a deal" to sign him, according to Fabrizio Romano.

However, Liverpool is determined to keep Konate at Anfield and has no intention of selling him this summer.10 They are actively engaged in contract negotiations to tie him down to an extension, despite talks not progressing as smoothly as they would like. There have even been reports of Real Madrid exploring a player-plus-cash deal, potentially involving Brahim Diaz and an additional €10 million, to tempt Liverpool into a sale. Konate himself has not publicly expressed a desire to leave Liverpool, and his importance to the team, particularly after a season where he started 30 Premier League games, is undeniable.

Beyond Konate, Real Madrid is also reportedly monitoring Arsenal's William Saliba.11 While Saliba's transfer would likely be more complex and expensive due to his longer contract, he remains on Madrid's radar as they look to bolster their central defense. The club's decision on a defensive signing will likely hinge on the progression of talks with Konate and the financial feasibility of other targets.

Goalkeeping Quandary: Lunin's Future

The future of goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is another significant talking point. Despite being under contract until 2030, Lunin is reportedly considering leaving Real Madrid in search of more consistent playing time. At 26, he is understandably eager for regular minutes, especially with the FIFA World Cup approaching next year. Last season, Lunin featured in 14 matches, mostly in the Copa del Rey, but found himself as Thibaut Courtois' backup once the Belgian returned from injury.

Several clubs, including Galatasaray, Villarreal, and Oviedo, have shown interest in Lunin's availability, with Villarreal reportedly making an official inquiry.12 While Real Madrid would prefer to keep Lunin as a reliable backup to Courtois, they understand his desire for a starting role. Should Lunin decide to depart, Real Madrid would be forced to enter the market for a new goalkeeper, as young Sergio Mestre lacks first-team experience.13 Manchester City is also rumored to be preparing a €45 million bid for Lunin, contingent on their current No. 1, Ederson, leaving the club. This potential move highlights the growing interest in Lunin and the complexities of Real Madrid's goalkeeping situation.

Other Departures and Renewals

In terms of potential departures, Real Madrid is actively seeking to recoup funds for midfielder Reinier Jesus. The 23-year-old, who arrived from Flamengo in 2020 with high expectations, has struggled to make a first-team appearance. The club is looking for potential suitors, and a mutual contract termination could be an option if a sale isn't possible.

On the renewal front, beyond Courtois and Diaz, Real Madrid is also reportedly focusing on extending the contract of young center-back Raul Asencio until June 2031.14 This indicates the club's commitment to securing the long-term future of its promising talents.

In conclusion, Real Madrid's transfer window on July 20, 2025, is characterized by a blend of ongoing contract sagas, strategic defensive targets, and decisions regarding squad depth. The coming weeks will undoubtedly see further developments as the club aims to finalize its roster for the upcoming season.