Arsenal have spent much of the summer looking for another elite attacker, with Real Madrid superstar Vinícius Júnior now a concrete target.
The Brazilian has developed into one of the finest wide forwards of his generation since joining Real from Flamengo as a teenager.
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After a difficult start in Spain, he transformed into one of the club's most decisive players, helping Los Blancos win trophies galore through his explosive pace, fearless dribbling and ability to produce in the biggest matches.
Across his 375-game Real Madrid career, he has delivered 128 goals and 100 assists while becoming one of the first names on the teamsheet.
Mikel Arteta has built a squad capable of competing for the biggest trophies, but the search for another game-changing attacker has continued throughout the transfer window.
Following Rogers' move to Chelsea, Arsenal have assessed several alternatives, while Andrea Berta has remained alert to opportunities involving world-class players.
England's Morgan Rogers in action
Vinícius undoubtedly falls into that category.
Even so, signing him would represent one of the biggest transfers in Premier League history.
Real have repeatedly stated they want the Brazil international to remain at the Santiago Bernabéu, but negotiations over a new contract have yet to reach a breakthrough. With his current deal moving closer to its final year, Europe's biggest clubs have inevitably begun monitoring developments.
Madrid's priority remains agreeing fresh terms rather than allowing one of their biggest stars to edge towards a free transfer.
Arsenal green-light move for Vinícius Jr as Real Madrid contract talks stall
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According to David Ornstein this afternoon, Arsenal have now taken the first concrete steps.
The Athletic journalist reports the Gunners are exploring a move for Vinícius, with interest currently at an early stage. No discussions have yet taken place between Arsenal and Real, but the idea has reportedly been green-lit internally by decision-makers at the Emirates.
Much now depends on the outcome of the winger's contract negotiations in Spain.
Ornstein adds that Real have no intention of allowing Vinícius to leave for nothing when his deal expires, which means the coming weeks could prove significant.
If a new contract is agreed, speculation will almost certainly disappear. If negotiations continue to stall, however, Europe's wealthiest clubs will inevitably continue assessing whether a deal could become possible, and that now includes Arsenal.
Completing a transfer would be enormously difficult because of the fee, wages and competition involved, but truly elite sides cannot ignore opportunities involving players of Vinícius' calibre.
While there is no guarantee this develops, Arsenal would be justified in monitoring one of football's outstanding talents for as long as uncertainty remains over his future.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta before the match Related
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