Arsenal Explore Deal for 26-Year-Old Vinicius Junior as Real Madrid Talks Stall
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jul 27
Arsenal Explore Deal for 26-Year-Old Vinicius Junior as Real Madrid Talks Stall
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 27
Summary
Arsenal are assessing a move for Vinicius Junior after the Real Madrid winger entered the final 12 months of his contract, with Arteta seeking a major upgrade on the left side of attack.
Seven Premier League goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard combined in 2025-26 left Arsenal too reliant on their right flank, where 42% of their attacking touches came last season.
Vinicius would address that imbalance with elite one-on-one threat and transition speed: he averaged 7.7 take-ons per 90 in La Liga, while Madrid sent 43% of their attacking touches down his left side.
The main caveat is defensive work, with Vinicius posting four true tackles per 1,000 opponent touches last season, a profile that could test Arteta's demand for off-ball intensity.
Any deal would be one of Arsenal's biggest statements yet, especially with Madrid still trying to renew a player whose fee could exceed £200 million.