Mikel Arteta may have to abandon his own policy if Arsenal are to sign Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid. The Gunners are considering an audacious move for the Brazil star, who has just a year left on his contract.
British Record Fee and High Wages
Reports in Spain claim Arsenal would need to pay a British record £137m to sign the 26-year-old. Vinicius would also demand wages of at least £400,000 a week, making him the club's best-paid player.
This would be a reversal from Arteta, who moved on high-earners like Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after taking charge in 2019. Both were on at least £350,000 per week.
Recent Wage Shift
Arsenal recently revisited such sums by giving Bukayo Saka a new contract worth £365,000 a week. However, as a homegrown talent and loyal servant, he is seen as deserving of such rewards.
Handing a new signing a similar deal would revisit the large salaries occasionally given out during Arsene Wenger's final years. With a first Premier League title in over two decades and strong finances, such wages are now within reach.
Vinicius’ Future at Real Madrid
Vinicius’ future at Real is uncertain following Jose Mourinho's return as manager. Mourinho, who signed a three-year deal, was criticised for comments after Vinicius accused Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni of racial abuse during a Champions League tie in February.
Mourinho, then Benfica manager, said "something happens, always" in matches where Vinicius plays. Prestianni was banned for six matches after admitting to using homophobic language towards Vinicius. However, Mourinho has reportedly made it clear he wants key players to stay.
Contract Talks and Alternatives
Talks between Vinicius' representatives and Real continue, with both sides keen on a new deal. If not agreed, Real may cash in this summer to avoid losing him for free next year. Arsenal, also linked with Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez and PSG's Bradley Barcola, have already boosted attack by signing Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for £34m.
Bringing in a player of Vinicius' calibre would take their summer business to a new level and send a strong message to Premier League rivals.
