Mikel Arteta speaks about Bruno Guimaraes' transfer to Arsenal
Arsenal Football Newsletter
Vinicius Jr reached out to Arsenal to explain his decision after accepting Real Madrid’s offer of a new contract.
The Gunners had identified the 26-year-old as a leading transfer target this summer, having been encouraged by the Brazilian’s camp.
Arsenal’s hierarchy were all in favour of a significant financial outlay should Vinicius Jr fail to agree to an extension in Madrid.
The Athletic report that Arsenal remained optimistic up until the final hours of contract negotiations.
Their efforts were strengthened by positive conversations with the player and his representatives, with Arsenal outlining how he would become a central figure in their plans.
However, last week, an agreement between Vinicius and Real Madrid was reached.
Vinicius Jr
The report adds that the package proposed to Vinicius Jr on Wednesday reflects his importance to the club and their project.
The Brazilian was said to be asking for around €30million a year, plus an improvement in image rights. His previous terms, which were due to expire next summer, were worth €17.5m annually.
Reports in Spain suggest a comprise worth around €25m a year in salary has been agreed.
But contact between Arsenal and Vinicius did not end there.
The Athletic add that Vinicius reached out to Arsenal following the contract saga to confirm and explain his decision.
The forward was attracted to Arsenal’s ambitious project and the vision presented by manager Mikel Arteta, sporting director Andrea Berta and the Arsenal ownership.
Arsenal came remarkably close to signing one of football’s biggest stars.
The Athletic report that Vinicius’ willingness to engage with Arsenal demonstrated how genuinely open the Brazilian was to leaving Madrid and moving to London.
How to watch Arsenal vs Como for FREE: TV channel and live stream
Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal lead Barcola chase; Chelsea done deal
Will Lewis-Skelly leave Arsenal? Latest on Man Utd and Chelsea interest
Winter escapes and activities to end the year in style
Vinicius is said to have thanked the Premier League champions for their efforts and explained that the decision was ultimately driven by his affection for Madrid and the Spanish club’s financial commitment.