Arsenal’s summer transfer strategy could be heavily influenced by the future of Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian winger, who finished as runner-up for the Ballon d’Or, holds the key to Mikel Arteta’s transfer plans.
Real Madrid are determined to keep Vinicius, whose contract runs until June 2027. However, if the 23-year-old is tempted by a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, it could trigger a significant shakeup in the transfer market — with Arsenal at the center of the action.
A potential sale of Vinicius would give Real Madrid the financial power to pursue Athletic Club’s Nico Williams, a player high on Arsenal’s wishlist. Williams, who has a release clause of just €58 million, is regarded as one of the best value deals of the summer. Bayern Munich are also tracking the 22-year-old winger, but Real Madrid’s involvement could complicate Arsenal’s pursuit.
While Vinicius Junior’s estimated transfer value (ETV) stands at €122.4 million, Real Madrid are expected to demand closer to €300 million for a sale. Arsenal are unlikely to match that price, but a move to the Middle East could create a domino effect that disrupts the Gunners’ transfer strategy.
If Vinicius stays at the Bernabeu, Arsenal would have a clearer path to securing Williams. However, if Madrid lose their star winger, they are likely to push hard for Williams as a replacement. The Spanish forward reportedly prefers to stay in LaLiga, but the lure of Real Madrid could be difficult to resist.
Although Kylian Mbappe is expected to feature on the left wing at Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti’s side may still view Williams as a long-term solution. This would leave Arsenal scrambling for alternatives if Madrid swoop in.
Ultimately, Arsenal’s summer business may depend on whether Vinicius commits his future to Madrid — or sets off a chain reaction that forces Arteta and his team to rethink their strategy.