Arsenal are exploring a move for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior if he does not sign a new contract in Spain.
Talks for Vinicius Junior remains at an early stage, with no contact yet between the two clubs.
David Ornstein and James McNicholas report for The Athletic that the Brazil international features prominently among Arsenal’s attacking options. The idea has approval throughout the club, although there is no guarantee it will develop into formal negotiations.
Vinicius has entered the final 12 months of his Real Madrid contract. Talks over an extension have not produced an agreement, leaving Madrid at risk of losing him without a transfer fee next summer.
The 26-year-old scored 22 goals for Madrid last season. He also registered four goals across five World Cup appearances before Brazil lost to Norway in the last 16.
Why an Arsenal move for Vinicius Junior appeals
Arsenal want to improve the left side of Mikel Arteta’s attack after Leandro Trossard joined Besiktas. Christos Tzolis has arrived from Club Brugge, but Vinicius would add proven elite-level quality.
ReadArsenal previously reported that Vinicius had emerged as an option after Arsenal missed out on Morgan Rogers. The latest report moves the story beyond a possible alternative, confirming genuine interest from the Premier League champions.
Vinicius has scored 128 goals and provided 100 assists in 375 Real Madrid appearances. His pace and ability to attack defenders directly would provide a major threat opposite Bukayo Saka.
The finances remain difficult. Arsenal would need to agree a substantial transfer fee and accommodate one of the largest salaries in European football.
An Arsenal move for Vinicius Junior therefore remains exploratory. However, the support across the club suggests Andrea Berta will be ready to act if Madrid become willing to sell and the player encourages negotiations.
