Vinicius Junior and Yan Diomande agency dismisses ‘false and harmful’ transfer reports

The agency representing Vinicius Junior and Yan Diomande has criticised reports linking the players with moves to other clubs, describing the speculation as false, harmful and potentially defamatory.

Vinicius Junior has been linked with a move to Arsenal after reportedly rejecting the terms of a proposed contract extension with Real Madrid.

However, Roc Nation Sports International did not make clear whether its statement referred specifically to Vinicius Junior, Yan Diomande or another player. English media reports have interpreted the comments as being connected to speculation about Vinicius Junior.

Michael Yormark, president of Roc Nation Sports International, said in a statement: “We cannot stand idly by while unprofessional and ill-informed media outlets publish false and harmful information in order to attract attention.”

He added: “This is unacceptable, especially when it personally targets our players without any basis. It is upsetting and damaging, and can amount to defamation.”

Yormark continued: “The media and journalists must take greater responsibility.”

Vinicius Junior’s future has become a subject of increased speculation because his current contract with Real Madrid is due to expire in the summer of 2027.

Reports have linked Arsenal with a possible move for the Brazil international, while the Premier League club have also been credited with an interest in Julian Alvarez during the current summer transfer window.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was asked about the club’s recruitment plans earlier. He said: “We are working to improve and develop the squad, and we expect movements in the coming weeks.”

Arteta added: “We want to become better, like every other club, and the transfer market is very active.”

But he refused to discuss the possibility of signing Vinicius Junior or any other player who is not currently part of his squad, saying: “I do not want to comment on the possibility of signing Vinicius Junior or any other player who is not in my team.”

Vinicius Junior’s uncertain position at Real Madrid has also been linked to the Spanish club’s reported interest in signing Yan Diomande, the RB Leipzig winger, in the current transfer market.

The agency’s statement comes as speculation continues over the futures of both players, although it did not confirm or deny any specific transfer negotiations.

Arsenal are seeking to remain in contention for major honours in the new season after winning the Premier League and reaching the UEFA Champions League final last season, where they were beaten.

The club’s reported interest in Vinicius Junior has therefore added to the wider focus on its plans for the summer, alongside the possibility of a move for Julian Alvarez.

For now, neither Arsenal nor Real Madrid has confirmed a deal for Vinicius Junior, while the agency representing the players has warned media organisations against publishing claims it considers unsupported.