Vinicius Junior’s Real Madrid future remains uncertain.
Vinicius Junior’s Real Madrid future remains uncertain, with the Brazil forward yet to return to training as talks over a new contract continue.
Vinicius’ Brazil were eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the last-16 stage, and Real Madrid had expected him to return before the end of the month as new manager Jose Mourinho begins his second spell in charge.
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The 26-year-old, who joined Real Madrid as an 18-year-old in 2018, has scored 128 goals across eight seasons for the Spanish giants and narrowly missed out on the 2024 Ballon d’Or to Rodri.
Liverpool were linked with interest earlier in the transfer window but are not currently in the race for a player earning around £520,000 a week.
According to the Daily Mail, Vinicius is staying away from training while his representatives attempt to revive contract talks.
His current deal expires at the end of next season, with Madrid making it clear that his future depends on whether he lowers his demands to become joint top earner alongside Kylian Mbappe.
If no agreement is reached, Madrid are prepared to move on, potentially opening the door for Arsenal, who are monitoring the situation.
The Spanish giants are also close to completing a deal for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, another Roc Nation client, adding further attacking options to Mourinho’s squad.
Vinicius’ representatives are expected to highlight his commercial value during negotiations, with the Brazilian having major sponsorship appeal. However, Madrid are reluctant to meet his wage demands.
Arsenal are among the clubs exploring attacking options, with Julian Alvarez, Diomande and PSG winger Bradley Barcola also on their radar. Liverpool remain favourites for Barcola, although his situation could change depending on PSG’s pursuit of Diomande.
If Vinicius fails to agree a new contract, Madrid could consider selling him rather than risk losing him for free next summer. Saudi Arabian clubs have also shown interest, with Al Ahli previously prepared to offer a €1billion five-year contract.
Arsenal would almost certainly need to smash the British transfer record of £125million, set by Alexander Isak’s move from Newcastle United to Liverpool last summer, to sign Vinicius Junior.
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Vinicius Junior