Vinicius Junior addresses Jose Mourinho talks as Arsenal monitor Real Madrid contract

Vinicius Junior has revealed the message Jose Mourinho has delivered ahead of the new season as uncertainty over his Real Madrid contract continues to fuel speculation surrounding his future.

The Brazil international returned to pre-season training this week after being granted an extended break following the World Cup, rejoining his Real Madrid teammates at Valdebebas for medical assessments and the opening sessions under Mourinho.

Arsenal remain attentive to the situation, with the Gunners understood to be monitoring developments as Vinicius enters the final year of his current contract. However, FootballPlace understands the winger's priority remains signing a new deal at the Santiago Bernabéu, with both parties expecting an agreement to be reached.

After completing his first training sessions under the new Real Madrid head coach, Vinicius admitted the early stages of pre-season have been physically demanding.

"We have to prepare physically so that during the season we have fewer injuries and can count on everyone," he said.

"Yesterday we had two sessions; today, just one. That's how it goes. Today we did some gym work and short exercises to put more load on the legs. It was a good training session, and we all left very tired, but now it's time to rest for tomorrow."

The 26-year-old also explained what Mourinho has asked of him ahead of the new campaign.

"It has gone very well, getting to know the new coach and the new players, and training very hard," Vinicius added.

"Mourinho wants me to be as I have always been: happy, cheerful, and playing my football."

Vinicius' contractual position has inevitably attracted interest across Europe.

With just 12 months remaining on his current agreement, Arsenal are among the clubs keeping a close eye on developments should negotiations unexpectedly break down.

However, there is currently little indication that Real Madrid are preparing for life without one of their biggest stars.

FootballPlace understands Vinicius remains fully committed to the Spanish giants and is expected to continue discussions with the club over a new long-term contract in the coming weeks.

Although talks have taken longer than anticipated, there is growing confidence that an agreement will eventually be reached.

Real Madrid continue to regard Vinicius as one of the cornerstones of Mourinho's new project, while the player himself has consistently expressed his desire to remain in the Spanish capital.

That leaves Arsenal waiting for any unexpected change in circumstances rather than actively pursuing negotiations at this stage.

Key points

Contract discussions between Real Madrid and Vinicius' representatives are expected to continue throughout August.

Unless negotiations take an unforeseen turn, the expectation remains that the Brazilian will commit his future to the European giants, ending speculation over a potential move elsewhere despite continued interest from Arsenal.