While fans’ attention is focused on the new season and Real Madrid’s high-profile signings, a thorny issue is quietly being resolved behind the scenes, with no celebration or even an official statement.
This is one of the most puzzling matters of Pérez’s recent tenure. Reliable sources indicate that a young player is close to leaving the Santiago Bernabéu permanently, despite the significant amount spent on his transfer, and despite never having worn the white shirt in a single official match.
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The story dates back to January 2020, when Real Madrid signed Reinier Jesus, then considered one of Brazil’s brightest talents, from Flamengo for approximately €30 million. Expectations were high, and hopes even higher, but the reality turned out to be completely different.
Since his arrival, Reinier has gone out on multiple loans without making a meaningful impact. He ultimately returned to the Spanish capital without being given a single opportunity to train with the first team under Xabi Alonso, who has reportedly excluded him entirely from his plans.
According to Spanish sources close to the club, Real Madrid has decided to terminate Reinier’s contract early and allow him to leave on a free transfer this summer, despite one full season remaining on his current deal. Leaks suggest that Florentino Pérez himself admitted the signing was an “unsuccessful gamble,” which is a rare acknowledgment of a misstep in contract policy.
Brazilian side Atlético Mineiro has expressed interest in signing the player, but on one condition: that his contract with Real Madrid is terminated with no financial obligations involved.
With the departure of Reinier Jesus, Real Madrid closes the book on one of its most disappointing deals in recent history. The player failed to make a single official appearance and never lived up to the expectations that accompanied his signing.
The question remains: was the rush to sign him an isolated mistake, or does it reflect a deeper issue within the club’s approach to talent acquisition that now demands a comprehensive review?
