Arsenal exploring deal for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior

Arsenal are exploring a move to sign Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior if he does not extend his contract in the Spanish capital.

The Brazil international, 26, figures prominently among multiple candidates for the Premier League champions to bolster their attack. That said, the interest is at any early stage and there is no guarantee it materialises into a deal.

There have been no club-to-club talks yet but the idea has approval at all levels within Arsenal.

Vinicius Jr is into the last 12 months of his terms after eight campaigns and there has so far been no breakthrough in negotiations over a renewal.

⁠Real Madrid will not want to countenance losing the forward for free, especially as he would be due a significant loyalty bonus next season.

Vinicius Jr impressed during this summer’s World Cup, playing in all five of Brazil’s games and scoring four times before Carlo Ancelotti’s side lost to Norway in the round of 16.

He registered 22 goals across all competitions for Real Madrid in 2025-26 as they finished a second consecutive season empty-handed — coming second in La Liga, eight points behind Barcelona.

Vinicius Jr joined Madrid in 2018 from Flamengo and has made 375 total appearances, registering 128 goals and 100 assists.

(The Athletic)