Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement in principle on personal terms with Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior as the Premier League champions continue their ambitious pursuit of the Brazilian.
The Gunners are looking to strengthen their attacking options this summer, with manager Mikel Arteta keen to add a world-class left winger ahead of the new season.
The latest claim comes from Arsenal-focused social media account Hand of Arsenal, which reported that Vinicius’ representatives at Roc Nation have agreed personal terms with the north London club and are preparing for negotiations with Real Madrid.
Real Madrid yet to approve move
Despite the reported breakthrough, Arsenal still face a major obstacle in convincing Real Madrid to part with one of their biggest stars.
Vinicius has one year remaining on his current contract, but new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is understood to be determined to keep the 26-year-old at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Reports in Spain have also suggested that Real Madrid remain confident of extending the Brazil international’s contract, while club officials reportedly do not view incoming winger Yan Diomande as a replacement for Vinicius.
No official club-to-club agreement has been announced.
Arteta wants stronger squad
Arsenal’s interest comes as Arteta looks to strengthen his title-winning squad following Leandro Trossard’s departure and uncertainty surrounding Gabriel Martinelli’s future.
Speaking about the club’s transfer plans, Arteta said: “We all know about the context of this transfer window.
“From ownership to the board, the sporting director and myself, we know that we want to take this club to a different level.
“That is going to require a better squad, better individuals.
“We have identified where we have opportunities to grow and to improve and to evolve our game and what is going to be needed to achieve that.
“Hopefully very soon we can start to put things in a very concrete way.”
While Arsenal may have reportedly made progress on the player’s side, any deal remains dependent on convincing Real Madrid to sell one of their key attackers, with the Spanish giants continuing to insist they want Vinicius to remain at the club.