Arsenal are readying a record-breaking contract offer for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, with the club prepared to make him the highest-paid player in their history. The 26-year-old Brazilian has entered the final year of his contract at the Bernabeu, where he currently earns £400,000 per week.
Record wages on offer
According to reports, Arsenal's hierarchy would not only match his current salary but improve on it to convince Vinicius to move to north London. Such a deal would eclipse the wages of Bukayo Saka, whose £365,000-a-week contract signed in February is set to rise each season. The Gunners are looking to build on their Premier League title victory and improve in the Champions League, having lost on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain in last season's final.
Left-wing need
Manager Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen the left wing following the sale of Leandro Trossard to Besiktas. Arsenal have already signed Christos Tzolis for £34 million, but the club plans to add further attacking options. Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola has been scouted, with PSG demanding £145 million for the Frenchman, but Liverpool are also interested.
Real Madrid's stance
Real Madrid face losing Vinicius on a free transfer next summer if they fail to agree a new deal, as he is due a large loyalty bonus if he stays for the 2026-27 season. New manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly opposed to selling the winger at the start of his second spell at the club. However, concerns persist over how Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe can form an effective partnership at the highest level. Since Mbappe joined in July 2024, shortly after Real Madrid won a La Liga and Champions League double with Vinicius as a key figure, the club has failed to win a trophy and has had three permanent managers. In contrast, arch-rivals Barcelona have won five of the six domestic trophies available in that period.
Arsenal and Real Madrid have yet to engage in direct contact over a potential transfer. Vinicius will miss Real's first pre-season friendly against Leganes on Tuesday as he is still on holiday following the World Cup.
