You might think paying €45 million for a 16-year-old without a first-team appearance to his name is excessive. You might be correct. In the case of Vinicius Jr., though, you just might be incorrect.
Real Madrid have reportedly had a €45 million bid accepted by Vinicius's club, Flamengo, although the move cannot be finalized until Vinicius turns 18, in July of next year.
The reason Real Madrid are willing to go to such lengths to sign such an unproven player: Vinicius Jr. is one of the best 16-year-olds ever. He was the player of the tournament at the South American U-17 Championships. He also has braces.
He seems to shine in a roving, left-sided attacking role, one occupied right now at Real Madrid by a man named Cristiano Ronaldo. Something to keep an eye on.