Arsenal's pursuit of Vinicius Jr could be a smokescreen for another marquee signing, with the Gunners reportedly eyeing a move for RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande. The north London club's interest in the Brazilian star may not reveal the full extent of Mikel Arteta's transfer plans this summer.
Vinicius Jr Contract Situation
Arsenal's interest in Vinicius Jr was reported last week by The Athletic, noting their willingness to sign him if he doesn't extend his contract with Real Madrid. The 26-year-old has just 12 months left on his deal, and Madrid could sell him this summer rather than lose him for free next year. Even before Leandro Trossard's sale to Besiktas, a marquee attacker was a priority for Arteta as he aims to defend the Premier League title.
While Vinicius is currently the superior player, Diomande, 19, is seven years younger and equally adept on both flanks. Madrid's interest in Diomande may be influenced by Vinicius's contract situation, with the Spanish giants having already launched an unsuccessful £85 million bid for the Ivorian.
Diomande's Verbal Agreement
According to Diario AS, there is optimism that Vinicius will extend his eight-year tenure at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, that hasn't stopped Madrid's pursuit of Diomande, with Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg reporting a 'verbal agreement' for the winger to join the La Liga side.
The deal has hit a snag, though, as Leipzig's managing director Marcel Schafer cast doubt on its progression. Schafer told Sky Germany: "It's clear that some so-called transfer experts reported a few days ago that the deal was done or gave it the 'here we go.' That's simply not the case. We're not at that stage yet."
Arsenal's Advantage
This update gives credence to Arsenal's ability to overtake Madrid in securing Diomande. With just over a month left in the transfer window, the Gunners have already added Christos Tzolis to their ranks, but the opportunity to capture one of the world's leading attackers remains a priority until the window closes.
