Arsenal's hopes of signing Vinicius Junior have been dashed after the Brazilian winger agreed a new contract with Real Madrid, less than 24 hours after a crucial meeting with club officials. The Premier League champions had prepared a substantial financial package and even held direct talks with the player, but the allure of staying in Madrid proved decisive.
The End of the Saga
For weeks, Arsenal fans dared to dream as reports emerged of concrete interest in the Real Madrid superstar. With his contract expiring and Real refusing to meet his wage demands, a stunning coup seemed possible. However, Vinicius ultimately chose to extend his stay at the Santiago Bernabeu, leaving Mikel Arteta to explore other options.
Seven Alternatives Ranked
Mirror Football has assessed seven potential targets for the left wing position, with the transfer window closing in less than a month.
7. Iliman Ndiaye
Everton's Iliman Ndiaye has been linked with a move to north London, having reportedly rejected a contract offer at Goodison Park. The 26-year-old would cost around £75m, but his six goals and three assists last season hardly inspire confidence. He is Premier League-proven but lacks the world-class quality Arsenal crave.
6. Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford's name resurfaces every summer, but his inconsistent form and astronomical £325,000-a-week wage demands make a move unlikely. Such a salary would make him Arsenal's top earner, disrupting their carefully structured wage bill. Barcelona's decision to pass on their option-to-buy deal with Manchester United highlights the financial concerns.
5. Rafael Leao
Once considered on par with Vinicius, Rafael Leao's stock has fallen after two underwhelming seasons. At 27, the Portuguese winger is in his physical prime with little upside, and AC Milan have reportedly reduced their asking price to £45m-£50m. However, his pressing deficiencies and the step up in defensive quality in the Premier League pose significant risks.
4. Nico Williams
Nico Williams has long been an Arsenal target, but his decision to sign a 10-year contract with Athletic Club in 2024 has backfired. The 24-year-old has scored just 16 La Liga goals in three seasons and has struggled with injuries. His release clause stands at around £77m (€90m), but his recent form raises doubts about his ability to justify such a fee.
3. Stick with Current Players
Given the lack of quality available, Arsenal could opt to rely on their existing options. They have already signed Christos Tzolis for £34m as a direct replacement for Leandro Trossard, and the Greek international has impressed in pre-season. Gabriel Martinelli and Eberechi Eze, who shone away at Manchester City last season, provide further depth. This approach would allow Arteta to focus on strengthening the centre forward position instead.
2. Bradley Barcola
Arsenal could look to hijack Bradley Barcola's likely move to Liverpool, but PSG's £128m valuation and the player's preference for the Reds make a deal difficult. Barcola has reportedly spoken with Andoni Iraola and prioritises a move to Anfield. Unless the Gunners' decision-makers believe he is financially viable, this seems a stretch.
1. Kenan Yildiz
The best option for Arsenal is Juventus's Kenan Yildiz. The 21-year-old Turkish international is considered untouchable, but a massive transfer fee and the player's desire to force an exit might tempt a sale. Arsenal have already made enquiries, but Juventus have knocked them back. Securing Yildiz would require creative financial structuring, but it could land one of Europe's brightest talents.
