'He's nice, he's my boy!' - Vinicius Jr named world's best footballer by Indiana Pacers' Pascal Siakam at NBA All-Star weekend

Vinicius Jr is a big NBA fan and has been spotted hanging out with superstars including Victor Wembanyama, LA Lakers legend LeBron James and the 'Greek Freak' Giannis Antetokounmpo on trips Stateside. The Brazilian also spent time with Siakam last summer after the NBA star paid a visit to Real Madrid's training camp in Charlotte during the club's pre-season preparations.

Siakam has clearly been impressed with Vini and has hurled praise at the Real Madrid forward and says he's the best player in the world currently. Vinicius controversially missed out on the Ballon d'Or last year to Rodri but did pick up FIFA's The Best Men's Player for 2024 award after a season where he won La Liga and the Champions League.

He told reporters: "My boy Vini Jr. Cause yeah he's nice. He's my boy. And he's tough. Best player right now in the world." Vini Jr responded online with the message: "My broooo!!!!"

Vinicius Jr and Real Madrid saw their La Liga title hopes suffer a blow on Saturday after dropping points against Osasuna. The Spanish giants return to action at the Santiago Bernabeu in midweek for the second leg of their Champions League play-off and resume with a 3-2 lead over Manchester City.