Arsenal have been handed a major boost in their hunt for an attacking reinforcement before the transfer window closes.
Real Madrid increase Vinicius Jr contract offer
The Vinicius Junior saga has been threatening a dramatic conclusion for weeks now, but Real Madrid are looking to ensure that the headlines remain in their favour.
It looked for a moment like Arsenal were set to swoop in and steal the Brazilian from under their noses. The Gunners were confident that he would join and were exploring a move to secure his signature.
Since then, though, Real Madrid have upped their contract offer to Vinicius Jr and are reportedly closing in on a deal to extend their star’s time at the club.
|
Arsenal’s potential attack 26/26 |
Primary position(s) |
Best role |
Key traits |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Viktor Gyökeres |
Centre-forward |
Complete No. 9 / Transition striker |
A powerful, all-round striker who combines explosive running power with elite penalty-box instincts. Excellent at attacking space behind defences. |
|
Vinícius Júnior* |
Left wing |
Elite inside forward |
One of the world’s most dangerous wide attackers. Exceptional acceleration, one-v-one ability and ball carrying make him devastating against isolated full-backs. |
|
Bukayo Saka |
Right wing |
Inverted winger / Creative forward |
Arsenal’s attacking leader. Outstanding one-v-one ability, close control and decision-making in the final third. |
|
Gabriel Martinelli |
Left wing |
Direct inside forward |
One of Arsenal’s most dangerous transition threats. Uses explosive pace, aggressive movement and sharp diagonal runs to attack the space behind defenders. |
|
Kai Havertz |
Centre-forward / No. 10 |
Hybrid forward |
Offers intelligence, versatility and excellent movement between defensive lines. Strong aerially, capable of linking play and making late box arrivals. |
|
Noni Madueke |
Right wing / Left wing |
Direct winger |
A powerful ball carrier who excels in one-v-one situations. Uses acceleration, physical strength and close control to beat defenders. |
|
Eberechi Eze |
No. 10 / Left wing |
Creative playmaker |
A technically gifted creator who thrives between the lines. Excellent close control, carrying ability and ability to unlock compact defences with combinations or individual moments. |
|
Gabriel Jesus |
Centre-forward / Wide forward |
Mobile pressing forward |
Brings intelligent movement, pressing intensity and link play. Best when dropping into midfield. |
|
Christos Tzolis |
Left wing / Right wing |
Direct wide attacker |
A versatile winger with pace, crossing ability and attacking instincts. Provides width and penetration. |
|
Ethan Nwaneri |
No. 10 / Right wing |
Creative attacking midfielder |
A highly technical young attacker with excellent ball control, composure and attacking intelligence. |
|
Max Dowman |
Right wing / Attacking midfield |
Developmental creator |
Exceptionally talented young attacker with outstanding technical ability and confidence in possession. |
Whilst there is still hope that Vinicius Jr could arrive as long as his new contract remains unsigned, Arsenal are already moving onto another impressive winger.
£77m winger now open to Arsenal move
If it’s not Vinicius Jr, then it may well be Nico Williams. According to Teamtalk, the Athletic Club winger has previously not been receptive to approaches from Arsenal, but has changed his stance and is now open to a move this summer.
It’s a key boost for the Gunners, with sporting director Andrea Berta holding talks about pursuing the talented Spaniard. Now that a move for Vinicius Jr is escaping their grasp, Williams could quickly become one to watch.
Like the Real Madrid man, however, Williams won’t come cheap. The 24-year-old reportedly has a release clause worth a hefty £77m, which would make him the second-most expensive player in Arsenal’s history behind Declan Rice at £105m.
Alas, praise from Jacek Kulig suggests that Williams would be worth every penny. The scout has dubbed the winger “magnificent” and could be one of many waiting for him to make an impact away from Athletic Club.
