Arsenal have received 'information' from Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior's 'inner circle' as they launch an ambitious move to bring the Brazilian to the Emirates.
Having failed to land number one attacking target Morgan Rogers this summer, Arsenal have turned their attentions to alternative targets, such as Yan Diomande and Vini Jr.
The Gunners made a call regarding Diomande's situation after a move for Rogers was hijacked by Chelsea, according to Fabrizio Romano, but it was made clear that the winger's preference was to join Paris Saint-Germain.
Now, it appears as though he could be on his way to Real Madrid instead, which could potentially open the door to an exit for Vinicius Junior, given both often operate from the left flank.
There is no doubt that the north London outfit prising the Brazil international away from the Bernabeu this summer would be an enormous statement of intent, and send shockwaves across Europe.
But it is the type of signing a club who has just won the Premier League and reached the final of a Champions League should be looking to make, as they look to reach the next level.
Arsenal face a big battle to get a deal over the line however.
What Vini Jr is Telling 'Good Friends' About Real Madrid Exit
Vinicius Jr in action for Brazil at the 2026 World CupKim Price/Cal Sport Media/Sipa USA via Reuters
New 'information' has now emerged from reliable Spanish journalist Tomas Rancero about Vini Jr's stance on a move away from Real Madrid this summer, with contract talks between the parties still at a standstill.
The 26-year-old has allegedly made it clear to his friends how he feels about potentially leaving Real Madrid on a free transfer, with his contract due to expire next summer.
Speaking on Diario AS's YouTube channel, Rancero said:
"Take note of this. This is information from his inner circle, because Vinicius has good friends in Madrid and what he's been saying in recent weeks is that he doesn't want to leave without leaving a single Euro in Real Madrid's coffers.
"In other words, when people bring it up, and especially among friends, where conversations are natural and you have trust, they ask: 'Are you leaving for free next year?' He says: 'No, I can't leave Real Madrid for free because Real Madrid took me in when I was 16'."
Arsenal to Accelerate Talks to Sign Another South American
Mikel Artetavia Reuters
According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, Arsenal are also set to accelerate talks to sign another South American star this week.
The Gunners are keen to land another Brazilian in Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United, but they are yet to launch a formal offer to the Magpies for his services, with the Tyneside outfit continuing to deny any contact at all from the north Londoners over a potential deal, despite all the talk in the media.
Arsenal already have a buy-in from Newcastle's captain over a switch to the Emirates, but finding an agreement on an appropriate fee will be the most difficult part of negotiations.
The Gunners are said to be willing to stretch beyond £70m for the 28-year-old, with Newcastle likely to reject an offer worth that for such a key player.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
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