Alan Pardew has sensationally labelled Arsenal's proposed move for Vinicius Junior a 'done deal'. The 26-year-old Brazilian has entered the final 12 months of his contract at Real Madrid, with talks over a renewal collapsing after last year's Club World Cup. Reports over the weekend indicated Arsenal had been alerted and exploratory talks had taken place over a potential big-money bid, an idea 'approved on all levels' within the club's hierarchy.
Pardew's Verdict
Speaking on talkSPORT, the former Newcastle, Crystal Palace, and West Ham manager said: 'What a signing that would be. I think this is a deal that will happen. The reason I think that is he's got history with Jose Mourinho, he's at Real Madrid, he's got a year left on his contract. They've been trying to get him to sign a new deal for a long time now.' Pardew added that Arsenal's status as newly crowned Premier League champions and London location make it a tempting proposition.
Arsenal's Weak Link
According to Pardew, the left wing remains Arsenal's 'weak link'. He stated: 'The other thing you've got to remember is that the weak link of Arsenal's team is wide left where there's Gabriel Martinelli and Eberechi Eze hasn't really filled that.' He believes Vinicius could be the missing piece: 'All they need to do is have that one player when it's 0-0 at 87 minutes at the Emirates, he jinks past two and curls it in the top corner.'
Social Media and Star Power
Pardew also highlighted the potential social media boost for Vinicius: 'He would be the biggest player in the Premier League. He'd be the biggest star in the Premier League if he comes because we are actually missing a few star players.' He noted that joining Arsenal could grow Vinicius's social media following significantly.
Bruno Guimaraes Interest
Arsenal are also pursuing Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes, reportedly preparing an improved £70m offer. Pardew, who managed Newcastle from 2010 to 2014, said: 'I think his love has gone, I can't see him staying there and being the same player so I think it's going to be a question of: as much money as possible.'
Declan Rice Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, concerns surround Declan Rice's fitness after a difficult World Cup. The England midfielder has a neural issue affecting his hamstring and lower back, potentially missing the start of the season. Pardew commented: 'He might need more than a month I think. That first half of the season, you might not see the best of him.'
