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Vinicius Junior is attracted by the prospect of joining Arsenal this summer if he fails to agree a new contract with Real Madrid, according to reports. Arsenal are exploring the possibility of signing the Brazilian winger before the end of the summer transfer window but have yet to submit a formal offer to Madrid.
The 26-year-old has less than a year remaining on his contract with the Spanish club, meaning he could leave on a free transfer next summer. According to The Athletic, Arsenal have not yet made an official approach, but a potential switch to the Premier League champions appeals to the forward. If Vinicius Jr decides to make the move to England, Arsenal are expected to reach an agreement on personal terms without difficulty.
‘Arteta loves him,’ a source close to the Arsenal manager said. ‘If he doesn’t renew, we will be there.’
Madrid have issued a clear ultimatum to Vinicius Jr during contract negotiations. He previously rejected an offer worth €20 million (£17.1m) net per season, with Madrid refusing to include a renewal bonus in the package. The club’s current proposal remains on the table, but Madrid have informed the winger that it is final and will not be increased.
Madrid have made their position direct: if Vinicius Jr does not sign, they will sell him before the transfer window closes. The club are unwilling to alter their salary structure despite the winger’s importance to the squad, and they have no intention of allowing him to walk away as a free agent next summer. That stance is what opens the door to a potential sale to Arsenal this summer.
Madrid president Florentino Perez addressed the situation in an interview with El Pais earlier this summer, striking a measured tone.
‘I’d love for him to stay forever. He’s won us the last two Champions Leagues and he’s very much identified with the club. Do you know who doesn’t want him? Those who aren’t Real Madrid fans. Vinicius is a star and I’ll be delighted to have him always. If he doesn’t want to be at Madrid and wants to sign with another club, he’ll be free to do so. I’m not going to force him into anything. Money won’t be the most important thing, it never has been.’
Separately, Madrid are in advanced talks to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig in a deal worth €135m (£115.5m) after add-ons. The 19-year-old reported in sick on Saturday morning and is not expected to travel with the squad for their training camp in Austria.
Read also: Real Madrid Give Vinicius Junior a Sell-or-Sign Ultimatum After Arsenal Interestv
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