Vinicius Junior is preparing for a return to Real Madrid amid ongoing speculation over a potential move to Arsenal.
The 26-year-old is a transfer target for the Gunners, who are exploring a deal for the Brazil international as Mikel Arteta aims to bolster his attacking options.
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However, any move hinges on contract talks with Vinicius Jr and the LaLiga giants.
The forward has entered the final 12 months of his deal at the Santiago Bernabeu and it has been widely reported that his preference is to stay in the Spanish capital.
Though, it’s also understood that Real Madrid do not want to risk letting Vinicius Jr walk away for free next summer. As such, an agreement over a new deal must be reached, otherwise a switch to Arsenal becomes a possibility.
Ultimately, as reported by the Athletic, the two sides are scheduled to hold conversations next week to bring the matter to a head, meaning the days ahead will be crucial to determining the outcome of the Brazil superstar’s immediate future.
Vinicius Jr is still on holiday after being given time off following Brazil's last-16 exit to Norway at the World Cup on July 5.
Players are given a mandatory 21 days off over the summer. That takes Vinicius Jr up to this weekend and therefore he is expected to report back to Real Madrid for the start of his pre-season on Monday.
As it stands Vinicius Jr could be involved in the friendly against Ferencvaros on August 8, though Jose Mourinho has revealed concerns about the length of time he will have to work with his entire squad.
Speaking after Real Madrid's 2-2 draw against Fiorentina, he said: “I’m concerned about not having everyone, and I would like to have three weeks of work with the others. It’s not possible.
"On Monday, Vini Jr., Brahim, and Bernardo [Silva] will arrive.
"Dumfries, Carlos, and Endrick will already have a few more days of work.
"Little by little, until the boys who played in the World Cup semifinals and final arrive, with the final being only Cucurella.”
