Alan Pardew: Vinicius Junior to Arsenal is a done deal; Mourinho factor could force Real Madrid exit

Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew believes Vinicius Junior’s proposed move to Arsenal is already heading towards completion, claiming the Brazilian winger’s history with Jose Mourinho could play a key role in his departure from Real Madrid.

Vinicius has entered the final year of his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu, with talks over an extension reportedly failing to reach an agreement. The uncertainty surrounding his future has sparked speculation that the Champions League winner could leave Madrid in the coming months.

The situation has intensified following the arrival of Mourinho as Real Madrid’s new manager, with reports suggesting the Portuguese coach is keen to reshape the squad and bring in new attacking options, including a possible move for RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande.

That has opened the possibility of Vinicius seeking a new challenge, with Arsenal emerging as one of the clubs ready to make a major push for his signature.

Pardew backs Arsenal move amid Mourinho relationship concerns

The Gunners are reportedly willing to make Vinicius one of the highest-paid players in their history, with the Brazilian said to be targeting a salary package worth around €550,000 (£470,000) per week.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Pardew suggested Arsenal’s position as Premier League champions and their London location could make the move attractive for the Real Madrid forward.

“What a signing that would be. I think this is a deal that will happen,” Pardew said.

“The reason I think that is he’s got history with Jose Mourinho, he’s at Real Madrid, he’s got a year left on his contract. They’ve been trying to get him to sign a new deal for a long time now.”

Pardew believes Arsenal’s status, lifestyle and financial strength could provide the perfect opportunity for Vinicius to leave Spain and continue his career at the highest level.

“When you think about the other side of the coin, the new champions of the Premier League… you’re in London, you’re not in Newcastle, you’re not in Manchester, you’re in London,” he added.

“You’re playing for the champions Arsenal, they’ll put you in a house in Regent’s Park, you can fly in and fly out your family at will because you’ll have enough finance to do it. I think it’s a tempting proposition.”

‘That’s a done deal in my book’ – Pardew backs blockbuster transfer

Pardew went further by insisting Arsenal’s pursuit of Vinicius is not just speculation but a move he expects to be completed.

The former Newcastle, Crystal Palace and West Ham boss believes Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta should prioritise signing a world-class individual capable of transforming the team’s attacking threat.

“I said at the back-end of last year that if there’s one thing I’d do as an Arsenal manager now, it’s go massive on one individual like a real, real top talent like Vinicius Junior,” Pardew said.

“That’s a done deal in my book, I think that’s going to happen, more so than Bruno Guimaraes.”

“I think it’s their number one target and probably has been for a while.”

Arsenal looking to strengthen left wing

Arsenal’s interest in Vinicius comes at a time when Arteta’s attacking options on the left side have become limited.

The departure of Leandro Trossard has left Gabriel Martinelli and summer signing Christos Tzolis as the club’s only natural options in that position, increasing the need for reinforcements.

Vinicius, regarded as one of the best wingers in world football, would represent a statement signing for Arsenal as they look to build on their Premier League success and compete for major honours.