Arsenal are monitoring Vinicius Junior’s contract standoff with Real Madrid after reports emerged that the Brazilian is considering a training strike. The 26-year-old, who has just one year left on his deal, has still not reached a resolution over a new contract, leaving the Spanish club anxious not to lose him on a free transfer next summer.
The Gunners, who have been targeting a major left-winger this summer, spotted a golden market opportunity after missing out on Morgan Rogers’ signature. According to sources, Arsenal chiefs have approved interest in Vinicius at all levels of the club. However, no official negotiations have taken place yet between the two clubs or with the player’s representatives, with Arsenal monitoring the situation closely before deciding whether to submit a formal bid.
“Arsenal eye Vinicius Junior as Real Madrid star considers training strike with one year left on deal.”
To convince Vinicius to move to north London, Arsenal would have to make him their top earner on a mammoth £400,000-a-week contract, which would overtake Bukayo Saka and break the current wage structure. The Brazilian has played an integral role in two Champions League-winning campaigns for Real Madrid and was unlucky not to win the Ballon d’Or in 2024.
Manager Mikel Arteta is desperate for a game-changing attacker after the Champions League final defeat to PSG in May, where Arsenal lacked individual moments of magic. Landing Vinicius would eclipse even Mesut Ozil’s seismic 2013 move and send a statement to Premier League and European rivals. With top wingers like Bradley Barcola and Yan Diomande commanding fees over £100m this summer, Vinicius stands levels above in quality and accomplishments. The question is whether Arsenal will seize the opportunity before Real Madrid resolve their contract crisis.