Vinicius Junior will not return to Real Madrid training this week as speculation over his future intensifies, with Arsenal linked to a sensational summer move for the Brazilian winger. The 26-year-old is entering the final year of his contract at the Bernabeu and has already missed the opening fortnight of pre-season under returning head coach Jose Mourinho, having been granted rest following Brazil's World Cup campaign.
Arsenal's Interest
Reports from the Daily Mail confirm that Vinicius will not report for training as expected, with Arsenal's interest described as genuine and the winger firmly at the top of their wishlist. The Gunners are reportedly prepared to offer a record-breaking contract to lure him to the Emirates Stadium. With his contract entering its final year, Vinicius could sign a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs from January 1, though Arsenal are keen to strike a deal this summer if possible.
Contract Negotiations
Spanish reports have grown increasingly confident about Real Madrid's chances of renewing Vinicius since Arsenal's interest became public. Diario AS stated: "All roads lead to the renewal of Vinicius." The Madrid-based sports daily acknowledged that "it remains to be seen what attitude and decisions will be made around Vinicius," adding that Madrid "want to solve his continuity or departure from the club quickly." They also noted that "extending his current situation, with the contract in the countdown, is something that clashes with the idea of the leaders." Both Madrid and Vinicius are understood to share the objective of securing a new deal, having come close to an agreement last summer before talks halted.
Wage Demands
Vinicius is reportedly seeking an annual pay increase of around £4 million, which would bring his net salary to approximately £17 million. Under the UK's 45% additional tax bracket, that would require a gross weekly wage of around £600,000—roughly double Bukayo Saka's current earnings including bonuses. However, it is understood that Vinicius' actual weekly wage demands are closer to £500,000. Arsenal will be hoping that suggestions Vinicius "will make it easy" for Madrid to renew his contract do not prove accurate, as any breakdown in negotiations would strengthen the Gunners' resolve to pursue the winger.
