Mourinho blocks Arsenal’s pursuit of Brazil star Vinicius Jr

Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has made it clear that Brazil forward Vinicius Jr. is not available for transfer, despite reported interest from Arsenal.

The Premier League club is said to be monitoring the 26-year-old’s contract situation at the Santiago Bernabéu, but Mourinho has informed the club’s hierarchy that the Brazilian remains a key part of his plans for the new season.

According to The Telegraph, Arsenal have identified Vinicius as one of their priority attacking targets this summer and are closely watching developments as negotiations over a new Real Madrid contract continue.

Key figure in Mourinho’s project

Mourinho reportedly views Vinicius as one of the pillars of his squad and has no intention of allowing the winger to leave.

The Brazilian is expected to form the backbone of the Portuguese coach’s project alongside France captain Kylian Mbappé and England midfielder Jude Bellingham, with the trio set to lead Real Madrid’s pursuit of domestic and European honours.

Contract talks remain unresolved

Despite Madrid’s desire to keep the Brazilian, uncertainty remains over his long-term future.

Vinicius has yet to agree fresh terms with the Spanish giants after months of negotiations, with his current contract due to expire on 30 June 2027.

The lack of progress has created concern at the club, as Real Madrid could enter the final year of the forward’s contract next summer if an agreement is not reached.

That scenario would increase pressure on the Spanish side to consider a sale rather than risk losing one of their biggest stars on a free transfer when his deal expires.

Arsenal face difficult task

For Arsenal, the unresolved contract situation has offered hope of landing one of world football’s leading attackers.

However, Mourinho’s determination to retain Vinicius underlines Real Madrid’s commitment to keeping the Brazilian at the centre of their long-term plans, making any move to north London appear increasingly unlikely.