Vinicius Junior Returns to Real Madrid Training Amid Contract Talks and Arsenal Interest

Vinicius Junior Back in Training at Real Madrid

Vinicius Junior, one of football’s brightest stars, has resumed training with Real Madrid as contract discussions continue. Since joining the club from Flamengo in 2018, Vinicius has grown into a key player for Los Blancos. Now 26, he is aiming to secure a salary reflecting his stature in the sport, whether that remains in Madrid or potentially shifts to London.

Contract Situation Heating Up

The Brazilian's current deal runs until next summer, forcing Madrid to decide how to proceed. The options include meeting Vinicius's wage demands to keep him long-term, waiting until his contract expires and risking losing him on a free transfer, or selling him now to recoup a substantial fee.

Reports over the weekend indicated talks have stalled. ESPN revealed Real Madrid is hesitant to improve their offer, awaiting Vinicius’s response. Meanwhile, the BBC noted he already earns significantly more than the widely reported $604,000 per week but seeks a major raise, aware that a free transfer next year could bring an even bigger payday.

Potential Move to Arsenal?

Vinicius has been strongly linked with a transfer to Arsenal. The Premier League champions have reportedly laid groundwork to pursue him. Yet, this move depends entirely on whether Vinicius opts to leave Madrid.

If contract talks collapse, Madrid might consider selling him now to avoid losing him for nothing next summer. The transfer fee could reach around £130 million ($174 million), not including the vast wages Vinicius demands. Currently, Arsenal's highest earner, Bukayo Saka, makes about £400,000 ($537,000) weekly, well below Vinicius's current salary.

Upcoming Matches and Fitness

Vinicius returned to training at Madrid’s Valdebebas facility on August 3 after missing time due to contract uncertainty and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It’s unclear if he will feature in the friendly against Ferencvaros on August 8 in Budapest. Madrid also face Deportivo La Coruna on August 12 and Schalke on August 16 before starting La Liga on August 22 at Espanyol.

Given his recent absence and ongoing negotiations, the club might hold him out until his future is settled and he’s fully ready to commit.

• Training Return: August 3, 2026
• Next Friendlies: Ferencvaros (Aug 8), Deportivo La Coruna (Aug 12), Schalke (Aug 16)
• La Liga Start: August 22 vs Espanyol (away), August 26 vs Real Sociedad (home)