Vinicius Junior to Arsenal remains under consideration, with the Gunners reportedly prepared to make the Brazilian their highest-paid player.
No approach has been made to Real Madrid, but Arsenal believe they could afford the winger’s substantial salary demands.
Bukayo Saka currently earns more than £300,000 per week after signing a new five-year contract in February.
Vinicius reportedly wants around €550,000, approximately £470,000, per week in his next contract. Arsenal have the finances to offer him more than Saka, although they have not decided whether to pursue the deal.
Vinicius Junior to Arsenal could break wage structure
According to talkSPORT, Vinicius is an option rather than Arsenal’s leading attacking target. Direct discussions with Madrid or the player’s representatives have not started.
The 26-year-old is approaching the final season of his Madrid contract after talks over an extension stalled. His future has become increasingly uncertain as the Spanish club work on a deal for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande.
ReadArsenal reported on Sunday that Madrid had reached a verbal agreement in principle for Diomande. However, the teenager’s arrival would not automatically force Vinicius to leave the Bernabéu.
Mikel Arteta wants another left-sided attacker following Leandro Trossard’s departure. Vinicius would provide pace, individual creativity and experience at the highest level, but his wages would create a new financial benchmark inside Arsenal’s squad.
Troy Deeney has also questioned whether the Brazilian’s personality would suit Arteta’s collective approach. The former Watford striker believes managing Vinicius alongside established figures such as Saka could present a new challenge.
Vinicius Junior to Arsenal is therefore an ambitious possibility rather than an advanced transfer. The Gunners can afford a record contract, but they still need encouragement from the player before opening negotiations with Madrid.
