Vinicius Junior intends to reach a resolution on his delicate contract situation at Real Madrid and is not currently entertaining interest from Arsenal, according to reports in Spain.
Arsenal's interest and contract situation
A report from The Athletic on Saturday claimed Arsenal had been actively exploring a sensational move for Vinicius, with the idea said to have been 'approved on all levels' within the club's hierarchy. Vinicius has entered into the final 12 months of his current deal, alerting the Gunners as they search for attacking reinforcements ahead of the new campaign. The news that Madrid have agreed personal terms with RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande has fueled rumours that Vinicius' days with Los Blancos could be numbered after a glittering eight-year spell at the Bernabeu.
Vinicius' stance and contract demands
According to Spanish publication AS, Vinicius has 'felt undervalued' by incessant speculation linking Madrid with Barcelona's Julian Alvarez, Bayern Munich's Michael Olise and Diomande. However, the 26-year-old Brazil international wants to stay put and his 'priority' is to renew his contract at the Bernabeu. Vinicius wants to 'make it easy' for Madrid bosses to strike an agreement, keen to avoid a repeat of last summer's episode when contract talks halted after the Club World Cup. Madrid's hierarchy shares this viewpoint and intends to do everything to strike a deal. Contract discussions are expected to resume next week once Vinicius returns from his hometown Sao Goncalo.
Role and salary assurances
Before making decisions, Vinicius wants assurances from Madrid's management over his role in Jose Mourinho's first-team and whether his salary will reflect his status in the world game. Mourinho has reportedly made it clear he wishes to keep Vinicius, planning for a frontline of Diomande, Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius, supported by Jude Bellingham. Vinicius is demanding wages of around €20 million (£17 million) net per season, an increase of €5 million (£4.3 million) from his last renewal in 2022. Liverpool have also been linked but their interest remains just that for now.
Vinicius' achievements and Arsenal's summer moves
Vinicius has racked up 128 goals and 100 assists for Madrid since joining from Flamengo for £38 million in 2017, aged 16. He has helped Madrid win 14 trophies, including three La Liga titles and two Champions League crowns. Premier League champions Arsenal have already strengthened their attack with the summer addition of Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for around £34 million, plus free agent Illan Meslier, and activating their £35 million option to sign Piero Hincapie permanently from Bayer Leverkusen.
