Arsenal are exploring a sensational move for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, with the 26-year-old’s future at the Bernabeu hanging in the balance. The Brazil international has just one year left on his contract in Madrid, and the La Liga giants could yet cash in rather than risk losing him for free in 2027, according to a bombshell report from the Athletic.
Interest from the Gunners remains at an early stage and no talks have taken place between the two clubs. But the move has already been approved at all levels within Arsenal, who are desperate to add a wide forward before the summer transfer window closes. Mikel Arteta recently missed out on Morgan Rogers, who joined Chelsea in a record-breaking £117million deal.
“Arsenal target Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior with just one year left on his contract.”
The timing is crucial. Vinicius is due a significant loyalty bonus next season after eight years at Real, while new manager Jose Mourinho has cast doubt on the winger’s role in his plans. Last season Vinicius scored 22 goals across all competitions, but Real went trophyless for the second successive year. At this summer’s World Cup, the winger scored four times for Brazil but could not help them past the round of 16, where they were knocked out by Norway.
Arsenal, who won the Premier League title last season, are also chasing a striker, with Julian Alvarez and Ollie Watkins reportedly on the list. Co-chairman Josh Kroenke hinted at further business in May, saying: “When you win something, the sun’s still going to come up the next day. You’ve got to get back to work and there are many teams trying to gain on you, including some historically great ones around the Premier League. We’re going to look to strengthen because we know teams around us are going to get better.”
A deal for Vinicius would be a blockbuster statement, but the clock is ticking. With Madrid facing the prospect of losing a prized asset for nothing, Arsenal may sense an opportunity — but only if they can persuade the Brazilian to leave the Bernabeu before the window slams shut.