Arsenal are exploring a move for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior should he fail to sign a new contract with the Spanish giants, according to The Athletic.
The 26-year-old Brazil international is among several attacking targets being considered by the Premier League champions. However, Arsenal’s interest remains at an early stage, with no guarantee it will develop into a formal pursuit.
There have been no club-to-club talks, but the idea of signing Vinicius has reportedly received backing at all levels within Arsenal.
The forward has entered the final 12 months of his contract after eight seasons at Real Madrid, and negotiations over an extension have yet to produce a breakthrough.
Madrid are reluctant to risk losing one of their star players on a free transfer, particularly as Vinicius would be entitled to a significant loyalty bonus if he remains at the club next season.
Vinicius Junior enjoyed an impressive FIFA World Cup with Brazil this summer, scoring four goals in five appearances before Carlo Ancelotti’s side were eliminated by Norway in the round of 16.
At club level, he scored 22 goals in all competitions during the 2025-26 campaign, although Real Madrid finished the season without silverware, ending second in La Liga, eight points behind Barcelona.
Since joining Madrid from Flamengo in 2018, Vinicius has made 375 appearances, scoring 128 goals and providing 100 assists.
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