"They Were Very Aggressive": Vinícius Júnior's Advisor Speaks Candidly About Transfer Saga

Vinícius Júnior recently extended his contract with Real Madrid. However, the Brazilian superstar could have left the Spanish record holders last summer and joined Arsenal.

The London club was seriously interested in the winger, confirmed Michael Yormack, president of Vinícius's agency Roc Nation Sports International, in an interview with Sportsboom. "Arsenal was heavily involved. They were very aggressive," Yormack stated. A move to London was a viable option for Vinícius. "Did he ever seriously consider Arsenal? I mean, of course. When a team like Arsenal rolls out the red carpet and makes you feel truly wanted, you have to listen," he explained.

Ultimately, the decision favored Real. In August, Vinícius signed a lucrative new contract keeping him with Los Blancos until 2032. For Yormack, this move was not surprising: "Vini's heart beats for Madrid; he always wanted to be there, he is there, and he hopes to spend the rest of his career there. I don't think there was ever any doubt about that. Spending his entire career at one club, the best club in the world, that would be something very special."

The relationship between Vinícius and Real hasn't always been smooth. Despite his sporting successes, the attacker repeatedly faced criticism from his own fans and was even booed at the Santiago Bernabéu on multiple occasions. Last season, his behavior frequently made headlines: after being substituted in the Clásico against FC Barcelona by then-coach Xabi Alonso, he lost his temper and was heard on camera saying, "Always me. I'm leaving the team. I'm going, it's better if I leave."

This led to renewed speculation about a potential departure. Arsenal's coach Mikel Arteta reportedly contacted Vinícius personally to persuade him to move to London.

The start to the 2026/27 season has also been far from optimal for the winger. After ten competitive matches, he has only one goal and three assists. Additionally, he received a suspension in La Liga: after pulling his opponent's hair and then reacting angrily in the match against Villarreal before his potential goal, he was banned for four league games.

However, the Brazilian is eligible to play in the Champions League. Therefore, nothing stands in the way of his participation in Wednesday's match against RB Leipzig.