The Gunners are switching targets after the Real Madrid superstar signed a contract extension, with Mikel Arteta determined to strengthen in attack
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Arsenal intend to hold their nerve and assess alternative options after missing out on Vinicius Jr with the Real Madrid superstar signing a contract extension at the Bernabeu on Thursday.
Mikel Arteta is still eager to bring in a new left winger, though, with three notable options still on the table.
Arsenal made a serious bid to sign Vinicius Jr, with an agreement close on personal terms, but the 26-year-old ultimately opted to commit his future to Madrid in a deal until 2032.
The contract ends speculation over his future with his previous deal just one year away expiring and making him available on a free transfer.
Arsenal are now searching for an alternative with Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez admired, particularly by Mikel Arteta.
But the Argentine striker has also been linked with Barcelona and looks poised to remain in Spain either way.
Bradley Barcola is another attractive option, with Liverpool also keen on the Paris Saint-Germain winger.
Arsenal are playing catch-up to some extent though, with Liverpool thought to be further down the line in terms of negotiations over personal terms.
Bradley Barcola of France is admired by Arsenal and Liverpool
Bradley Barcola of France is admired by Arsenal and Liverpool (Getty)
PSG’s valuation could also prove a stumbling block, with the France international priced by his club at £130m, a figure above the Gunners’ own valuation.
Arsenal have also considered Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye, who was strongly linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League club earlier this summer.
The Senegal international, 26, hit six goals for the Toffees last year and scored against Iraq at this summer’s World Cup.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are on the verge of signing his Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle.
A £75m deal for the centre-midfielder will reduce a reliance on Declan Rice and set up one of the strongest midfields in the Premier League.
Earlier this summer, Arteta moved to replace Leandro Trossard, who has joined Besiktas, with Greek international Christos Tzolis, who has started the last two friendlies for the Gunners.
But another wide forward remains a priority and will be the focus once Guimaraes is officially announced as an Arsenal player.