Vinicius Junior’s decision to remain at Real Madrid halted one of the summer’s biggest transfer sagas, after his team-mates reportedly believed a move to Arsenal was close to completion.
The Brazil international, 26, had been negotiating a new contract in Madrid since the start of 2025. Real Madrid wanted to secure his future before his existing agreement expired in 2027.
After months of discussions, Vinicius Junior agreed to extend his contract until 2032. That brought an end to Arsenal’s efforts to complete a deal worth more than £100M in particularly emphatic fashion.
The proposed move to the Premier League had been regarded as a serious possibility within the Real Madrid dressing room. According to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, players at the club were stunned when Vinicius Junior ultimately chose to stay rather than join Arsenal.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta subsequently turned his attention to Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez as an alternative attacking target.
The Gunners are expected to return to the transfer market in January as they seek further attacking reinforcements. However, Atletico Madrid will not sell the Argentina international during the middle of the season.