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Vinicius Junior has spoken publicly for the first time since reports surfaced linking him with a sensational summer move to Arsenal. The Real Madrid star has become the focus of a major transfer battle, with Mikel Arteta keen to bring the winger to Emirates Stadium.

Vinicius opens up on Mourinho talks

In spite of the intense speculation over a possible blockbuster switch to north London, Vinicius has now rejoined his team-mates in the Spanish capital. The 26-year-old was seen returning to the club’s Valdebebas complex for medical tests before heading back out on the training ground. Although his return to training may be viewed as a setback for the Gunners, the player used his first media interaction of pre-season to speak about his relationship with new manager Jose Mourinho.

Speaking to Real Madrid TV, the winger said he has already had positive conversations with the Portuguese coach regarding his role in the 2026-27 season. "Very well, getting to know the new manager, the new players and working really hard in training," he said. "He wants me to be just as I’ve always been – happy, positive and playing my own style of football."

Pre-season grind amid transfer frenzy

The Brazil international is coming off the back of a World Cup in North America and admitted that the opening sessions back at Valdebebas have been physically tough.

He described the demanding work, saying: "I think the goal is to get us match fit so we have fewer injuries during the season and can rely on everyone throughout the campaign. Two days in already. Yesterday was a double session, today just the one. That’s how it’s going.

"Today we did some gym work, in the end they were short exercises to build up leg strength and I think it was a really good session.

"We all finished completely dead on our feet, but now it’s time to rest up for tomorrow. That’s pre-season for you – we’ve got to be ready."

Arteta targets marquee Emirates addition

Even as the player remains fully professional on the pitch, the background to his contract situation continues to build. Madrid have reportedly delivered a take-it-or-leave-it ultimatum over their final contract extension proposal. With his current agreement due to expire next year, Los Blancos are believed to be open to selling him this summer if no deal is agreed. That has placed Arsenal on red alert, with the Gunners manager personally driving the effort to persuade Vinicius to move to the Premier League champions.

Reports indicate that Arsenal are ready to break their existing wage structure to make the 26-year-old the highest-paid player in Premier League history. The rumours gathered further momentum when the player’s agent posted updates from London.

Madrid face major contract dilemma

The hierarchy at the Bernabeu now has a huge call to make as the transfer window moves into its closing weeks. They must either persuade their star player to accept the proposed extension or face the possibility of losing him for a reduced fee now, or for nothing in June 2027. Mourinho’s arrival has introduced a fresh dimension to the situation, but Arsenal’s financial muscle remains a major factor.

However, until the contract is signed, the Gunners are expected to stay alert and ready to act. The coming weeks will decide whether Vinicius Jr becomes the face of a new era at Emirates Stadium or leads Mourinho’s revolution in Madrid.