Vinicius Junior considered Arsenal move but chose Real Madrid

Vinicius Junior seriously considered Arsenal’s approach during the summer transfer window but chose to remain at Real Madrid, according to statements from his representatives at Roc Nation Sports International. Michael Yormack and Grant Veitch said Arsenal pursued the Brazilian forward forcefully and made him feel wanted. Veitch said Vinicius listened to the offer, but his comfort at Madrid, where he had already become a star, and his desire to build his career and win more titles there were decisive. Yormack said Vinicius hopes to remain at the Spanish club for the rest of his career. Reports said Arsenal were prepared to offer Vinicius £18.5 million a year. The representatives’ remarks do not confirm that figure or spell out the proposed terms. Arsenal’s approach was described by Yormack as aggressive, but the full status and details of any offer have not been made public in the accounts. Vinicius joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018, aged 18. He has scored 129 goals in 386 appearances for the club and won three La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies. His decision to stay came amid continued attention to his future following Kylian Mbappe’s arrival from Paris...