Real Madrid spent $67 million to sign Vinicius Junior before he played a pro game

Flamengo product Vinicius Junior is just 16 years old and has never played a pro match, but he already has a deal with Real Madrid. Los Merengues met his release clause of €30 million, could end up paying €45 million for him, and will spend a total of €62 million when all agent fees are figured into the deal, as well.

Because of FIFA regulations, Vinicius Junior can’t join Real Madrid until he turns 18, next July. He’s expected to make his professional debut for Flamengo this month, possibly as early as Saturday, when they kick off their Brasileirao season.

At youth level, Vinicius Junior is one of the most dominant players ever. Two years ago, he tallied six goals and five assists at the South American Under-15 Championships. After a dominant 2016 with Flamengo’s youth team, he shined at the South American Under-17 Championships this spring, winning Player of the Tournament.

Now, he’ll make the step up to senior soccer knowing that he already has a move to Real Madrid secured. No pressure.

You’ll see what Madrid saw in Vinicius Junior very quickly in this video.

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