Arsenal explore shock move for Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior

Arsenal are looking into a potential deal for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, according to Sky Sports. There has been no club-to-club contact yet, but the interest from the Emirates is genuine, with the Brazilian one of several forward options on Arsenal's radar alongside Julian Alvarez, Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola.

Vinicius, 26, has entered the final year of his Real Madrid contract. If terms on an extension can't be agreed, the Spanish club could be open to selling rather than risk losing the 2024 Ballon d'Or runner-up for nothing next summer.

The move fits a clear need. Arsenal have already sold Leandro Trossard to Besiktas for £17m and brought in Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for £34m, but their other left-sided option, Gabriel Martinelli, managed just one Premier League goal last season. Landing a player of Vinicius's calibre would be a statement of intent from the champions as they look to add further firepower up front.

Vinicius is currently on holiday following Brazil's involvement at the World Cup.