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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly moved to the front of the race for Vinicius Junior after holding direct talks with the Real Madrid superstar. A contract deadlock at the Bernabeu has created the possibility of a switch to the Premier League, but the Gunners would need to match a record-breaking asking price to complete such a huge transfer.

Arteta leads the charm offensive

Arsenal’s interest in Vinicius Junior has intensified after reports claimed that Arteta has personally spoken to the Brazil international over a possible move to the Emirates Stadium. The latest update follows earlier reports that the Gunners are eager to sign the Real Madrid forward this summer.

Vinicius’ future has become uncertain because of his ongoing contract situation. The winger remains tied down until 2027, but reports say Madrid have informed him that they will sell him this summer if he does not agree to their latest renewal proposal, rather than risk losing him for nothing when his contract runs out.

Arsenal steps up Vinicius Jr pursuit

According to AS, Arteta has ‘taken charge’ of Arsenal’s pursuit by presenting the club’s long-term vision directly to Vinicius. The report says the Spaniard explained how central the winger would be to a team aiming to establish itself as the dominant force in Europe. It also adds that Arsenal’s project for the 2026-27 season would be built largely around Vinicius, giving him a leading role that is said to be less guaranteed at Real Madrid.

Spanish journalist Sergio Valentin has backed up the claims of high-level contact, writing on X: “Arteta has spoken with Vinicius Junior. He has explained the Arsenal project to him and the importance of Vinicius in the club’s growth.”

Real Madrid set massive asking price

Although the possibility of a transfer is gathering momentum, Real Madrid are not willing to part with their star player on the cheap. The report states that Los Blancos have placed a €150 million (£128.4m) valuation on the 26-year-old, a sum that would make him the costliest signing in Premier League history. He would go past the previous record held by Alexander Isak, after the Sweden international’s £125 million move from Newcastle United to Liverpool in the summer of 2025.

Mourinho breaks silence on talisman’s future

With speculation over a move to London continuing to grow, new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has now spoken about the matter after his team’s recent pre-season friendly against Fiorentina. The Portuguese coach is keen to reintegrate his star names into the squad following the World Cup break. Mourinho admitted he is feeling the effects of not having a complete squad available, but he expects Vinicius to return in the coming days despite increasing transfer links with Arteta’s side.

Speaking through the club’s official website, Mourinho said: “On Monday, Vini Jr, Brahim [Diaz], and Bernardo [Silva] will arrive. Little by little, until the boys who played in the World Cup semifinals and final arrive, with the final being only [Marc] Cucurella.” While Mourinho expects his talisman back, Arsenal’s pressure continues to build as the transfer deadline draws closer.