Man Utd ready to bid for Vinicius Jr if Real Madrid star seeks La Liga exit, shock report claims

Manchester United are keen on signing Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr this summer, according to a report from Spain.

The 22-year-old has been subjected to racial abuse on a number of occasions in La Liga this season, with the latest occurrence happening during Real's 1-0 defeat to Valencia on Sunday.

Taking to social media after the game, the Brazilian star was heavily critical of La Liga, and its president Javier Tebas for his response, and stated that he wanted 'actions and punishments'.

He also described Spain as a 'country of racists', and said that La Liga 'belongs to racists'.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti, meanwhile, refused to discuss the match in his post-game press conference, and instead took aim at La Liga.

He told Movistar: "I spoke with Vinicius during the game because the atmosphere was really hot, very bad. I asked him if he would like to continue playing.

"The fact that he thought I have to remove him because of the racist environment - that is not good.

"I have brought players off because they are not playing well but I have never had to bring a player off because of racism. What happened today has happened many times before but not like today. This is unacceptable. La Liga has a problem. And it is not Vinicius. Vinicius is the victim. The league's problem is incredibly serious."

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) have decided to punish Valencia by enforcing the closure of part of the club's home stadium for their next five matches. The club has also been fined £40,000 for 'very serious breaches'.

Vinicius missed Real Madrid's training session on Tuesday, although Ancelotti stated that the winger does not want to leave the club.

A new report claims, however, that United are interested in signing him if he does decide to depart from Spain.

Man Utd 'keen on Vinicius'

According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Erik ten Hag and United are keen to bring Vinicius to Old Trafford this year.

If he does move to the club, the Brazil star would be reunited with former Real team-mates Casemiro and Raphael Varane, as well as compatriot Fred.

It is claimed, however, that it would take a fee of €200 million for Real to even consider parting company with their star asset - money that United likely will not have.

According to The Athletic, the club's transfer budget stands at £100 million due to Financial Fair Play restrictions, and would not be changed even in the event of a potential takeover by Sheikh Jassim's Nine Two Foundation, which has promised to clear existing debts.

United are also well stocked on the left side of midfield, which is Vinicius' preferred position. Marcus Rashford has netted 29 goals this season, predominantly playing in that role.

All in all, any move to Old Trafford appears extremely unlikely - but that may not stop the club from testing Real's resolve.

Topics: Manchester United, Vinicius Jr, Premier League, Real Madrid, La Liga, Transfers, Carlo Ancelotti, Erik Ten Hag

Ryan Smart

Live in constant hope of the top flight as a Preston North End fan. Written in the past for SPORF, GiveMeSport and more.