Arsenal on alert as Vinicius rejects latest Real Madrid contract offer – report

Arsenal have been handed fresh encouragement in their pursuit of Vinicius Junior after reports claimed the Brazilian winger rejected Real Madrid’s latest contract proposal.

The Brazil international is entering the final year of his current deal, and negotiations over an extension have reportedly reached another stumbling block.

Contract talks hit fresh obstacle

According to Cadena SER, Vinicius turned down a new offer from Real Madrid worth just over £360,000 per week, with the 26-year-old reportedly seeking parity with teammate Kylian Mbappé, who is believed to earn around £500,000 weekly.

The report claims the winger is now “closer to a transfer than a renewal” as negotiations remain at an impasse.

Despite his desire to avoid leaving as a free agent next summer, Vinicius and Real Madrid have yet to reach common ground, raising the possibility of a sale before the transfer window closes.

Real Madrid manager José Mourinho is understood to be keen to retain the Brazilian, viewing him as a key part of his plans for the new season.

Arsenal monitoring situation

Arsenal are reportedly keeping a close watch on developments, with manager Mikel Arteta identifying Vinicius as a priority target to strengthen the Premier League champions’ attack.

The North London club are expected to make a move only if it becomes clear that contract talks between the player and Real Madrid have completely broken down.

Vinicius has established himself as one of Europe’s leading attackers since arriving from Flamengo in 2018, scoring 128 goals in 376 appearances while helping Madrid win multiple domestic and European titles.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract, the Brazilian has previously described Real Madrid as “the club of my dreams” and said he hopes to remain at the Spanish giants for many years.

For now, Arsenal’s hopes of completing a blockbuster transfer appear to depend on whether Real Madrid and Vinicius can reach an agreement before his current deal enters its final months.