Vinicius Junior Back in Real Madrid Training as Contract Talks Stall Amid Arsenal Interest
Vinicius Junior, one of football's brightest stars, has come back to Real Madrid training after a break linked to his ongoing contract discussions. The Brazilian winger, who joined Madrid from Flamengo in 2018, is preparing for the upcoming season regardless of whether he stays in Spain or moves elsewhere.
Following pre-season medical tests at the club's Valdebebas facility on August 3, Vinicius was seen training alongside new signing Bernardo Silva, who recently arrived on a free transfer from Manchester City.
Current Status of Contract Negotiations
Talks between Vinicius and Real Madrid have hit a standstill. According to reports, the club is hesitant to increase their current offer while waiting for the 26-year-old to decide. The player reportedly earns significantly more than the widely reported weekly wage of $604,000, but he is seeking a considerable raise. With his contract expiring next summer, Vinicius holds leverage that could allow him to leave on a free transfer or command a high fee if sold now.
Potential Move to Arsenal
Arsenal has shown strong interest in Vinicius, aiming to add the star to their squad. The Premier League champions have done preliminary work to pursue a deal but can only proceed if Vinicius opts to leave Madrid. For Arsenal to make a move, contract talks at Real Madrid would likely need to collapse, prompting Madrid to sell rather than lose him without compensation next year.
The price tag could be steep, with estimates reaching around £130 million ($174 million) plus meeting Vinicius' demanding salary requirements. Currently, Arsenal's highest-paid player, Bukayo Saka, earns about £400,000 ($537,000) per week, which is less than Vinicius’ present earnings.
Upcoming Matches and Fitness
It’s uncertain if Vinicius will feature in Madrid’s friendly against Hungarian side Ferencvaros this Saturday, given his recent return to training and ongoing contract issues. The team’s schedule includes two more friendlies against Deportivo La Coruna on August 12 and Schalke on August 16 before the La Liga season starts.
Madrid’s league opener is set for August 22 away at Espanyol, with their first home game at the Bernabeu against Real Sociedad on August 26. Manager Jose Mourinho might decide to hold Vinicius out until his commitment to the club is clear and he regains full fitness.
Summary of Key Points
- Player: Vinicius Junior
- Club: Real Madrid
- Contract Status: Negotiations stalled; expires next summer
- Potential Transfer: Arsenal interested, transfer fee around £130 million ($174 million)
- Current Wage: More than $604,000 weekly
- Arsenal's Top Earner: Bukayo Saka at £400,000 ($537,000) weekly
- Training Return Date: August 3, 2026
- Upcoming Friendlies: Ferencvaros (Aug 8), Deportivo La Coruna (Aug 12), Schalke (Aug 16)
- La Liga Start: Aug 22 vs Espanyol (away), Aug 26 vs Real Sociedad (home)
