VINICIUS JR ABSENT FROM REAL MADRID PRE-SEASON TRAINING

Vinicius Jr has not returned to Real Madrid training this week as contract negotiations continue between the player's representatives and the Spanish club. The Brazilian, who played at the World Cup, was given an extended break and will remain away from the club beyond the end of July despite expectations he would report for pre-season. His absence comes as talks over a contract extension proceed, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the upcoming season.

The central issue in negotiations concerns Vinicius's wage demands. According to reports, the player seeks financial parity with Real Madrid's top earner Kylian Mbappé, whilst the La Liga club has asked him to lower his salary request. Real Madrid is reluctant to allow him to leave without compensation and is considering the possibility of selling him rather than letting his contract expire. Arsenal have internally discussed signing the 26-year-old and are monitoring the situation closely, though no formal bid has yet been submitted.

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, who returned to the club following his previous stint from 2010 to 2013, has already strengthened the squad during the transfer window by signing Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konate and Marc Cucurella. The club is also closing in on a £115 million move for Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig. Vinicius's resolution will likely shape the club's remaining transfer activity before the window closes.