Arsenal weighing up ambitious move for Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior | OneFootball

Arsenal are exploring the possibility of signing Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior if he fails to agree a new contract at the Santiago Bernabeu, according to The Athletic.

The Premier League champions are monitoring the 26-year-old’s contract situation closely. The winger is one of several attacking targets under consideration this summer.

While the interest remains at an early stage, the prospect of bringing Vinicius to north London has backing throughout the club.

No formal talks have taken place between Arsenal and Real Madrid, and there is currently no indication that negotiations are imminent.

However, the uncertainty surrounding Vinicius’ future has put Europe’s elite on alert.

The Brazil international has entered the final year of his current deal, with contract discussions yet to produce an agreement.

Real Madrid are unlikely to entertain losing one of their biggest stars on a free transfer next summer, particularly given the sizeable loyalty bonus he would be entitled to if he remains at the club.

Vinicius heads into the new campaign after another productive season in Spain, scoring 22 goals in all competitions despite Madrid ending 2025/26 without silverware.

He also impressed at the FIFA World Cup, netting four goals in five appearances for Brazil before their surprise last-16 exit to Norway.

Arsenal’s pursuit would undoubtedly rank among the biggest transfer stories of the summer if it gathers momentum.

The Gunners have already refreshed their attack following Leandro Trossard’s departure by signing Christos Tzolis, but further reinforcements are expected.

With Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli both poised to leave before the transfer window closes, Mikel Arteta could soon need another elite attacker.

Few players fit that description better than Vinicius.

Since arriving from Flamengo in 2018, the Brazilian has developed into one of world football’s most devastating wide forwards, producing 128 goals and 100 assists in 375 appearances for Madrid.

Signing a player of that calibre would send a statement to both domestic and European rivals, underlining Arsenal’s determination to dominate for years.