Vinicius Jr is open to moving to Arsenal if he decides against signing a new contract at Real Madrid, with the Gunners prepared to make a move for the winger.
Mikel Arteta's side are interested in the 26-year-old Brazil international, who has less than 12 months left on his deal at the Santiago Bernabeu. Vinicius would prefer to stay in the Spanish capital, but Real Madrid's reluctance to find common ground during contract negotiations has started to alter his stance. Arsenal's recruitment team are keeping tabs on developments and stand ready to pounce should he choose not to stay.
According to The Athletic, Vinicius would be open to joining Arsenal should he fail to agree new terms with Los Blancos. If he determines that a move to Emirates Stadium appeals, an accord is expected on personal terms, with Vinicius seeking £360,000 per week.
Arsenal back commercial impact
Arsenal's ownership have given the green light to the projected figures for a deal. While the sums are eye-watering, the Gunners are hopeful the outlay would be balanced by the commercial boost Vinicius would bring. He would take Arsenal's brand to unprecedented heights, and the club are convinced he could become the face of the club and even the Premier League for years to come.
Vinicius could represent the most significant transfer ever into English football's top tier, eclipsing the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho and Paul Pogba.
Real Madrid face a decision
Certain figures at Real would prefer to offload Vinicius this summer if a fresh contract does not materialise, rather than risk him departing for nothing in 12 months. Los Blancos are still expected to demand £137 million for the Brazilian.
From January, clubs outside Spain, including Arsenal, will be permitted to enter pre-contract negotiations with the winger over a free transfer in the summer of 2027. Should the player not suddenly opt to prolong his Bernabeu stay, Real will face a challenging decision.
Florentino Perez and Jose Mourinho must weigh up whether they would prefer to gamble on losing Vinicius for nothing at the end of the campaign or minimise their losses and cash in before the opportunity passes. The Brazilian could essentially be obtainable for a reduced fee during the winter transfer window, with only months remaining on his contract.
However, come January, with the business end of the season looming, there is always the danger that Real's hierarchy will value his on-field contributions more highly than cash reserves.
