Vinicius being groomed as Bale back-up

Despite the significant investment being made in the Samba star's sevices, the youngster has still yet to make his debut for the Spanish giants.

According to Spanish publication 'Sport', officials within the club see two potential paths to polish the raw starlet's potential, with Lopetegui convinced that he is not yet ready for regular LaLiga action.

The first option is the plan that is currently being followed: allowing him to play for Castilla when they play at home and including him in and around the first-team squad when the 'B' team plays away from home.

Whatsmore, the club are thought to see Vinicius as the perfect long-term replacement for Gareth Bale. The Welshman has had his injury problems since making the move to the Spanish capital, with Vinicius an option to come into the side if the former Tottenham man were to be sidelined again.

Another option is to loan him out when the January transfer window opens. Leganés, Rayo Vallecano and Levante all asked the question during the summer and a loan could give the forward a chance to get regular, competitive games under his belt at a much higher level than with Castilla.

However, there is a chance that the Brazilian will be given his chance sooner than expected, having been included in Lopetegui's preparation for the Champions League clash with Roma on Wednesday, making it possible that he could be included in the squad and maybe even play his first minutes for the side.