Arsenal transfer target Vinicius Jr has raised eyebrows with his social media activity as speculation over his future continues. The Brazilian has deleted his profile picture and all previously posted images on Instagram, including those related to Real Madrid. Only reels, many appearing to be partnerships, remain.
Social media clear-out after Real Madrid meeting
The change follows a meeting between the player's representatives and Real Madrid over a new contract. After an apparent stand-off, the Spanish giants seem to have softened their stance. According to football.london, Real Madrid have now tabled an improved offer to the 26-year-old, though whether it satisfies Vinicius Jr and his entourage remains unclear.
Fan theories and Arsenal interest
The reason for the social media clear-out is unclear and could be a routine tidy-up, but fans were quick to speculate. One said: "Vini jr instagram, he's deleted everything. Hmmmm interesting." Another added: "Vini Jr instagram page is completely cleared.... New start at Arsenal?"
A third commented: "Vini Jr has WIPPED [sic] Real Madrid from his IG completely. He's playing with his fans all this just to re-sign." A fourth said: "Vini Jr. deleting his Instagram photos... Could this mean an announcement of a contract renewal or a departure from Real Madrid?"
Arteta on transfer activity
Arsenal fans will monitor the situation closely, with Mikel Arteta keen to bolster his attacking options as the Gunners prepare to defend their Premier League title. Arsenal begin their league campaign in just over a fortnight against Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium.
When asked about signing Vinicius, Arteta said: "Well, we are really active, trying to improve and evolve the team. That's clear. We expect to have movements in the next few weeks, obviously, because we want to get better like anybody else. And you can just see it. The transfer market and our opponents, what we are doing, we won't sit still. And we are very ambitious in what we want to do."
