Arsenal are exploring a potential move for Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior as the Spanish giants intensify efforts to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, according to multiple reports.
Sky Sports News reported on Saturday that although there has been no direct contact between Arsenal and Real Madrid, the Premier League club’s interest in the Brazilian forward is genuine.
Vinicius is among several attacking options being considered by Arsenal, with Julian Alvarez, Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola also featuring on the club’s shortlist.
The 26-year-old has entered the final year of his contract at Real Madrid, raising uncertainty over his long-term future.
Reports suggest Madrid could consider selling the Brazil international this summer if contract extension talks fail, rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next year.
The situation has coincided with Real Madrid’s pursuit of highly rated RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande.
Sky Sports and talkSPORT reported that Madrid’s £85.4 million bid for the 19-year-old Ivory Coast international was rejected by the Bundesliga club. Arsenal and Liverpool are also said to be monitoring the youngster.
Yahoo Sports reported that Madrid’s interest in Diomande could improve Arsenal’s chances of signing Vinicius if the Spanish club secures the teenager as a replacement.
According to talkSPORT, Real Madrid have stepped up negotiations for Diomande after their opening offer was turned down.
The report added that although Diomande initially favoured a move to Paris Saint-Germain, the absence of a completed deal has given Madrid an opportunity to strengthen their pursuit.
Sky Sports reporter Peter Smith described a possible move for Vinicius to Arsenal as a major statement signing.
“It’s well known Arsenal are aiming to strengthen their left-wing options this summer – but a deal for Brazil ace Vinicius Junior would be a jaw-dropping addition,” Smith said.
“Vinicius Jr has one year left on his current Real Madrid contract, so this could be the window of opportunity for potential suitors to make their move, as Real try to tie the winger down to a new deal.”
Vinicius finished runner-up in the 2024 Ballon d’Or race and remains one of Real Madrid’s key attacking players.
Brazilian outlet ge also reported that he has been named among the club’s captains for the new season and will wear the armband in the absence of Federico Valverde.
The report further stated that Vinicius and new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho have resolved any previous differences following an incident involving Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni last season.
Arsenal have prioritised strengthening their attack after selling Leandro Trossard to Besiktas for £17 million and signing Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for £34 million.
For now, Arsenal’s interest in Vinicius remains at an exploratory stage, while Real Madrid continue negotiations for Diomande. Neither transfer has been finalised.
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