Real Madrid have no intention of forcing Vinícius out, but they would also not reject a suitable offer if one arrived from Arsenal during the transfer window.
With Arsenal waiting in the wings, fresh uncertainty has emerged over Vinícius Júnior’s future at Real Madrid after respected club insider Pepe Álvarez claimed the Brazilian is no longer considered indispensable under José Mourinho.
According to Álvarez, Real Madrid have no intention of forcing Vinícius out, but they would also not reject a suitable offer if one arrived during the transfer window.
🚨Mourinho no considera imprescindible al brasileño para su nuevo Real Madrid. El club no forzará su salida, pero tampoco cerrará la puerta a una “buena” oferta.
El club no puede pagarle 80M€ de Prima de fichaje ni darle el 80% de los derechos de imagen
— Pepe Álvarez (@pepealvarezzz) July 29, 2026
The report suggests the issue is not purely sporting but also financial.
Álvarez claims Real Madrid are unwilling to meet the financial demands surrounding a new contract, specifically an €80 million signing bonus and a request for 80 per cent of the player’s image rights. Those conditions are reportedly viewed as unacceptable by the Spanish giants, creating a significant obstacle in negotiations.
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The latest claim adds another layer to what has become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.
In recent weeks, reports from Spain suggested negotiations over a contract extension had slowed because of disagreements over Vinícius’ salary, while Sky Sports has maintained that Real Madrid remain confident the Brazilian will eventually sign a new deal.
Pepe Álvarez’s latest information paints a more nuanced picture, indicating that while Madrid are not actively looking to sell the winger, they are no longer treating him as a player who is completely unavailable under every circumstance.
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For Arsenal, the situation remains one to monitor closely.
The Gunners have long admired Vinícius and have explored whether there is any realistic possibility of bringing one of the world’s best wingers to the Emirates. Andrea Berta has been assessing elite attacking options throughout the summer as Arsenal look to strengthen the left side of Mikel Arteta’s attack.
Any move would still represent one of the most expensive transfers in football history and would require several factors to align before becoming realistic.
Real Madrid would first need to soften their stance, while Arsenal would also need to agree a financial package capable of satisfying both the club and the player.
At this stage, there is no indication that negotiations between Arsenal and Real Madrid have begun.
However, with another respected Real Madrid source suggesting the club would consider the right offer rather than declaring Vinícius untouchable, the story surrounding the Brazilian’s future looks set to continue until either a new contract is signed or the transfer window closes.
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Vinicius Jr