Vinicius faces key Real Madrid choice with Arsenal ready to pounce

Real Madrid are waiting for Vinicius Junior to respond to an improved contract offer as they attempt to secure the Brazilian’s future, with Arsenal monitoring the situation in case negotiations break down.

According to the British newspaper Daily Mail, Real Madrid have increased their proposal to the 26-year-old forward, with the package reportedly worth more than £19m a year.

The Spanish club are understood to remain confident of reaching an agreement, despite further speculation surrounding Vinicius after he removed all content from his Instagram account on Wednesday evening.

Clearing an account on social media is not unusual in football and can have a number of explanations. However, such a move is often interpreted as a possible indication that a player is unhappy with his current circumstances or is considering a significant change.

Arsenal continue to follow developments closely and hope to take advantage if Vinicius and Real Madrid fail to settle the terms of a new agreement. The Gunners’ interest has added pressure to a situation the Spanish club would prefer to resolve without allowing negotiations to become protracted.

Real Madrid’s optimism has nevertheless been strengthened by the position taken by manager Jose Mourinho. The Portuguese coach has made it clear that Vinicius is a central part of his plans and regards the player as an important element of his sporting project.

That backing has increased the club’s belief that it can resist Arsenal’s interest and keep the Brazil international at the Santiago Bernabeu. Real Madrid also view Mourinho’s public support as a sign of the importance attached to Vinicius within the team’s plans.

For now, the next step rests with the player, who must respond to the revised offer. Until that decision is made, Arsenal will continue to assess whether an opening could emerge in the event of a failed renewal.

At Arsenal, Mikel Arteta has sounded positive about the prospect of making further additions to his squad. His confidence comes after the club completed the signing of Greek player Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for £34m.

That deal has underlined Arsenal’s willingness to invest, while the club’s continued attention on Vinicius indicates that the forward remains a target should his contract situation at Real Madrid become unsettled. The London club’s interest is dependent on the progress of the renewal talks, with Real Madrid currently believing Mourinho’s support can help them prevent Arsenal from turning their interest into a transfer.