Sources have informed ESPN that Real Madrid is considering allowing Vinícius Júnior to leave if a new contract cannot be reached, as the club has no intention of revising their last offer for his renewal.
Vinícius is expected to return to Valdebebas for preseason training on Monday following his post-World Cup break, with uncertainty surrounding his future as he has just one year remaining on his contract.
ESPN’s sources indicate that no meeting has been scheduled yet between Madrid executives and the Brazilian international’s representatives, and the club believes it is now up to the player to decide whether he wishes to sign a new deal or pursue opportunities elsewhere.
Should Vinícius choose to leave, Arsenal sees itself in a favorable position, according to a source, although another insider close to the player stated there has been no communication with the Premier League champions.
Reports from ESPN have confirmed Arsenal’s interest in the winger and their consideration of the viability of a potential deal.
There has been a prolonged stalemate between Madrid and Vinícius’s agents regarding a contract renewal.
Last season, it was reported that the player had no urgency to renew and that discussions would not advance until after the World Cup.
Since joining Madrid as a teen in 2018, Vinícius, now 26, has emerged as one of the world’s elite players, scoring in two Champions League finals and finishing as the runner-up for the 2024 men’s Ballon d’Or.
He experienced dissatisfaction last season under former coach Xabi Alonso, venting his frustration over being substituted during a Clásico at the Bernabéu, contributing to a two-season trophy drought for the team.
This summer, Madrid has been active in the transfer market, recently acquiring forward Carlos Espí.
ESPN also reported that Madrid is nearing the confirmation of winger Yan Diomande‘s signing and is optimistic about acquiring Rodri from Manchester City.
This Saturday, Madrid faces Fiorentina in their first preseason friendly in Austria, following training matches against Alcorcón and Leganés.
New signings Denzel Dumfries and Espí are both part of the squad.
Information from ESPN’s Alex Kirkland and Rodrigo Faez contributed to this report.