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Vinícius Júnior has revealed that new head coach José Mourinho wants him to remain "happy" as contract extension talks with Real Madrid continue.
The future of the 26-year-old star has been under intense scrutiny in recent months, with his current deal due to run out in the summer of 2027. Extension discussions broke down last year, with Vinícius Jr reportedly pushing for a significant pay rise alongside a contentious "renewal bonus."
Both Vinícius Jr and club president Florentino Pérez have publicly expressed their desire to extend their partnership well beyond next year, yet the failure to reach an agreement after such lengthy negotiations continues to raise concerns.
Premier League title holders Arsenal have meanwhile emerged as serious contenders for his signature, while Real Madrid's anticipated signing of Yan Diomande adds further complications to the ongoing situation.
Preseason Going Well, Says Vinícius Jr
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Vinícius Jr offered a composed take on his current situation during Real Madrid's preseason under new boss Mourinho, showing no signs of any tension behind closed doors.
"It has gone very well, getting to know the new coach and the new players, and training very hard," he told Real Madrid TV. "Mourinho wants me to be as I have always been: happy, cheerful and playing my football."
He continued: "We need to build up our physical condition so that throughout the season we suffer fewer injuries and can rely on the full squad. It was a productive training session and we all finished exhausted, but now it's time to recover for tomorrow. That's the nature of pre-season and we have to be prepared."
The winger is yet to appear for Madrid in preseason and was speaking after completing his second training session with the squad, having been granted an extended summer rest following his involvement with Brazil at the 2026 World Cup.
What Contract Have Madrid Offered?
In recent days, Real Madrid have tabled a fresh contract proposal for Vinícius Jr, believed to be worth approximately €22 million ($25.5 million) per year after tax.
Although that figure marks an improvement on earlier offers, it falls considerably short of the €30 million ($34 million) plus bonuses that the 2024 Ballon d'Or runner-up was reportedly demanding at the outset of negotiations.
It has also been reported that Madrid have taken a 'take it or leave it' stance, with the club's most recent offer said to be their final proposal in the negotiation process. Reports from Spain indicate there is cautious optimism that this offer will ultimately convince the player to lower his demands and commit his future to the club.
Publicly at least, Vinícius Jr has made his preference to remain at Real Madrid abundantly clear, stating as recently as March, "I only think about Real Madrid and being there for a long time."