Real Madrid dealt transfer blow as rival European club set big fee demand for sale of 25-year-old star: Reports

Real Madrid have reportedly suffered a setback as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have put a massive €130 million price tag on Vitinha. The Spanish giants are looking to bolster their midfield and see the Portuguese star as the perfect fit.

According to a report in Foot01, Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso identified Vitinha as his top target after Manchester City blocked their move for Rodri. Alonso is keen to sign a solid replacement for Luka Modric, who joined AC Milan on a free transfer this summer.

The Spanish tactician wanted a player who could dictate the game and also put balls in behind the defense for his attackers to score. Vitinha was seen as the ideal player, but PSG's asking price has put a dent in their pursuit.

The Ligue 1 side signed Vitinha for €41.5 million in 2022, and he has established himself at the club. He played a key role as they completed the European treble last season, winning the Ligue 1 title and the Coupe de France and their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy.

PSG want a bid higher than what Real Madrid paid for Jude Bellingham to start any talks over a potential transfer. Los Blancos have not shown any intention to pay the asking price and are evaluating other options.

Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister and Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez were also linked with the Spanish giants this summer. However, both Premier League clubs are determined to keep their star players and are unlikely to open talks.

Real Madrid target Vitinha backed for Ballon d'Or

Portugal manager Roberto Martinez spoke about the Ballon d'Or earlier this summer and backed Vitinha for the award. He felt that the Real Madrid target was the best player last season, playing a key role in PSG's triumphs.

Martinez said (via GOAL):

"One thing is what Vitinha is doing this season. For me, without a doubt. He is a player who was essential for PSG to win everything they have won. I think that due to Vitinha's style and effectiveness, he deserves to be awarded the Ballon d'Or."

Portuguese tactician Jose Mourinho backed Vitinha and Nuno Mendes for the prestigious award, and said (via SPORTbible):

"Football, as much as we all want to make players special people, coaches special people, for me, it remains about the team. And for me, any individual trophy must always have a direct connection to titles. I love them both; I can't tell the difference. The only thing I'd say is that there's still a small group of good midfielders there, and now full-backs like that. I'd like one of them to win, obviously, but then Jorge Mendes will get mad at me because he only thinks Yamal, his player, should win."

Notably, Real Madrid boycotted the Ballon d'Or gala last year after reports emerged that Vinicius Jr would not win the award.

Edited by Sripad