Vinicius Jr reveals what Jose Mourinho told him as he weighs up his future amid Arsenal links | OneFootball

Vinicius Jr has revealed that new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho encouraged him to maintain his "happy" and "joyful" approach to football as the Brazil international navigates ongoing speculation about his future at the Bernabéu.

The 26-year-old forward, who recently returned for pre-season training following his World Cup commitments, is entering the final year of his contract next summer and has yet to agree a new deal.

Speaking to Real Madrid TV after his second day back, Vinicius said: "It has gone very well, getting to know the new coach and the new players and training very hard."

He added: "Mourinho wants me to be as I have always been: happy, joyful and to play my football. We have to prepare physically so that during the season, we have fewer injuries and thus be able to count on everyone."

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Jose Mourinho has spoken to Vinicius Jr (Getty)

The uncertainty surrounding Vinicius’s long-term commitment has fuelled transfer rumours, with Arsenal understood to be exploring the possibility of a summer move for the player, who scored 22 goals for Real Madrid last season.

Vinicius Jr joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018, and has enjoyed considerable success during his eight years with the Spanish giants.

During this period he has won La Liga three times and the Champions League on two occasions, while also finishing second in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings behind Manchester City midfielder Rodri.

However, he could opt to move on from Real Madrid this summer for a new challenge, and Arsenal are hoping to tempt him to north London.

The Gunners intent on raising the level of their attack, with the budget made available for such a move, and few would be bigger than Vinicius Jr.

Even in this era of unparalleled Premier League super wealth, few genuine global stars have arrived in their prime. While there is still a lot to be sorted before that happens here, the feeling from the top of Arsenal is that the situation is currently heading in a good direction. Vinicius Jr is open to the prospect of going to Arsenal.