David Ornstein reveals major Arsenal progress on Vinicius Junior
Arsenal’s ownership have approved a potential move for Vinicius Junior as Mikel Arteta pushes to add the Real Madrid superstar to his attack.
The Vinicius Junior to Arsenal transfer is now regarded as a realistic possibility if the Brazilian fails to agree a new contract at the Bernabéu.
The Athletic reports that Vinicius has become Arsenal’s top attacking target, with sporting director Andrea Berta already holding talks with his representatives.
A move to the Emirates Stadium is also understood to appeal to the 26-year-old if he decides against extending his Real Madrid contract.
One source familiar with Arteta’s position told The Athletic: “Arteta loves him. If he doesn’t renew, we will be there.”
Arsenal’s hierarchy have approved the anticipated financial commitment required to complete the transfer. The club are prepared to make an exception to their normal wage structure, while a signing-on payment and image-rights agreement could form part of the package.
🚨 Vinicius Junior future entering crucial stage – talks in coming days over extension at Real Madrid, free exit 2027 or join Arsenal now. #AFC all in & 26yo winger attracted by opportunity if no #RMFC renewal. W/ @MarioCortegana @gunnerblog @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/9cMEiffQfN
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 1, 2026
Vinicius has entered the final year of his Real Madrid contract and negotiations have failed to produce an agreement.
Madrid have offered around €20million net per season, while the player’s representatives have sought a package closer to €30m including bonuses. Talks are expected to resume next week.
The situation significantly changes the picture reported only days ago. ReadArsenal covered claims on Wednesday that Arsenal believed Vinicius would renew with Real Madrid and had effectively accepted defeat.
The Athletic’s latest information indicates Arsenal remain firmly positioned to act if those negotiations collapse.
Arsenal’s interest is not entirely new. Sky Sports previously confirmed that the Gunners were exploring a deal for Vinicius, although no club-to-club talks had taken place at that stage.
The latest report suggests significant work has since taken place behind the scenes. Berta has spoken with the player’s camp and key figures at Arsenal have presented Vinicius with the prospect of becoming the leading figure in Arteta’s project.
Real Madrid also face the risk of losing Vinicius without a transfer fee next summer. Arsenal hope that contractual pressure could allow them to negotiate below his normal market value.
The Gunners are not actively pushing for Bradley Barcola despite previously considering the Paris Saint-Germain winger. Their focus on Vinicius provides another indication of how seriously they are approaching a potential deal.
The Vinicius Junior to Arsenal transfer remains hugely difficult, but approval from the ownership and positive contact with his representatives represent significant steps.
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