Real Madrid have been advised that selling Vinicius Jr could allow a culture reset within the dressing room, with Paris Saint-Germain's success cited as proof that a team ethic can outperform individual quality.
The Brazilian forward has become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer, with Arsenal weighing up a move. No formal bid has been made, but the Premier League club are internally keen on the player, whose contract continues to wind down.
Vinicius's impact and contract situation
Vinicius has been at Real Madrid since 2018 and has become a key figure, helping the club win the Champions League twice. He is on substantial wages and is seeking parity with Kylian Mbappe, but negotiations come after a second consecutive trophyless season at the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid's fortunes have declined, and former France international Emmanuel Petit believes offloading one of their star names could change the club's culture. He pointed to PSG's success since losing Mbappe and adopting a more collective approach.
Petit's comments on culture reset
Petit told the Evening Standard: “Something has to be rebuilt in Madrid. It started with the manager in the dressing room, but also with the players on the pitch. You cannot rely all the time on the brilliance of Mbappé or Vinícius, they have to stop that.”
He added: “Spain and PSG have sent strong messages over the last two seasons that the team matters. It's not based on the individual, it's about the team's unity. You can have the best players in some positions, but it doesn't mean you're going to win the games and the competition.”
Petit also noted that manager Jose Mourinho wants strong and reliable players and is likely pressuring president Florentino Perez to spend wisely. “I know some big players are targets. If they can do that, it could be a very good season for Mourinho and for Madrid.”
Mourinho's new signings and Arsenal's interest
Mourinho has already brought in four new faces on free transfers: Ibrahima Konate, Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella, and Denzel Dumfries.
Arsenal are looking to strengthen their forward line after narrowly missing out on a Premier League and Champions League double. They were beaten in the European Cup final, and their lack of firepower has been identified as an area for improvement. The club has discussed adding Vinicius, which would be one of the most blockbuster signings in their history.
