Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has made clear his desire to keep Vinicius Jr at the club, even as Arsenal weigh up a potential move for the Brazilian winger. Vinicius is out of contract at the end of the 2026-27 season, and no significant progress has been made on an extension.
Perez's stance on Vinicius
Perez is on record expressing his admiration for Vinicius. He said: "Vinicius' renewal? There's time. I'd love for him to stay forever. He's won us the last two Champions Leagues and he identifies really well with the club. You know who doesn't like him? Those who aren't Real Madrid fans."
Vinicius has been at the Bernabeu since 2018 and scored in Champions League final victories in 2022 and 2024. He is regarded as one of the best wingers in the world.
Arsenal's interest
Arsenal have internally discussed a move for Vinicius, according to The Athletic. The Gunners have just won the Premier League and are looking to add star quality to take the final step in the Champions League. Adding firepower in attack is seen as a priority for Mikel Arteta's side.
However, no talks have taken place between Arsenal and Real Madrid. The La Liga giants may be forced to sell Vinicius if there is a risk of him leaving on a free transfer in 2027. The report also notes that Vinicius would be due a significant loyalty bonus next season, having spent eight years at the club.
Arsenal have not made a bid yet. Jose Mourinho, who returned to Real Madrid last year and has had a public spat with Vinicius, would oppose the sale this summer. Mourinho wants to keep all his big names, including Vinicius, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham.
Wage considerations
Vinicius is reportedly on around £400,000 per week. Signing a player on that wage would represent a major shift for Arsenal, who have not previously signed a world-class individual of that calibre.
Arsenal had earlier targeted Morgan Rogers but were outbid by Chelsea, who paid a British record £117 million to Aston Villa for the playmaker. The Gunners still have cash to spend as they look to add another dimension to their frontline.
