Vinicius Junior will not return to Real Madrid training this week, despite the club expecting him back before the end of the month, according to the Daily Mail.
The Brazilian's absence comes as his representatives push to revive stalled talks over a new contract, with his current deal set to expire at the end of next season and Arsenal showing interest, ready to swoop if his stand-off drags on.
Jose Mourinho, meanwhile, is already laying the groundwork for his second spell in charge at the Bernabeu, with the futures of several senior players still to be resolved.
Real Madrid insist the ball is in Vinicius' court, but resurfaced comments from the winger suggest his own priorities may not match the club's ultimatum.
Vinicius Jr Stays Away Despite Being Expected Back
Vinicius Junior (Brazil) at 2026 World CupPhil Noble via Action Images via Reuters
Madrid's stance is simple: Vinicius' future is in his own hands. Agree to become their joint top earner alongside Kylian Mbappe, and the club will keep him. Refuse, and there are no plans for an improved offer, with the door left wide open for Arsenal to make their move.
Mikel Arteta and Vinicius Jr look on in a split image Related
Arsenal's Dream 11 Next Season With Vinicius Jr and 3 More Signings is Frightening
Mikel Arteta could be close to building a Champions League winning team.
Talks between his representatives, Roc Nation, and Los Blancos are expected to focus on Vini's commercial value, given his current deal sees him hand over roughly half of his publicity earnings.
During the World Cup alone, he held lucrative partnerships with 15 sponsors worldwide, a number bettered only by fellow Brazilian Neymar. His value elsewhere is well established too. Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia reportedly offered him a five-year, €1billion contract last summer.
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho Related
Real Madrid's Potential Starting 11 Under Jose Mourinho Looks Absolutely Terrifying
Real Madrid's potential starting line-up under Jose Mourinho for the 2026-27 season is now looking terrifying
Vinicius Junior Made His True Real Madrid Feelings Clear
Vinicius Junior celebrating after scoring against Mallorca
Despite the standoff, Vinicius has been open before about where his heart lies. Speaking to Mundo Deportivo earlier this year, he said: "I'm not in a hurry to renew my contract. I'm tied to the club until 2027, so between now and 2027, there's still a lot for Madrid and me to discuss."
EPL_Real Madrid Salary Related
Every Real Madrid Player's Wage [2026]
Jude Bellingham isn't even close to being the highest earner
"I've never imagined myself away from Real Madrid. I enjoy every moment I spend here because this is my dream club. I always dreamed of playing here and being able to stay for so long."
"Now I’m one of the captains of the team. Even at such a young age, that’s something very special that doesn’t happen often in football history. So I enjoy every moment. I want to stay here for the rest of my life, but I’m still not in a hurry to renew my contract."