Real Madrid have set their asking price for Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior amid interest from Premier League champions, Arsenal.
The LaLiga kings are said to be demanding a minimum of €160 million (£137 million) for the Brazilian.
The Gunners are considering a bid for the winger, as Real Madrid aims to avoid losing the Brazilian international for free when his contract expires next summer.
The 26-year-old is viewed as a potential asset to enhance Arsenal’s left flank as they strive to solidify their position as Premier League champions under Mikel Arteta.
Last season, the forward netted 22 goals and provided 14 assists in 53 matches for Los Blancos, despite the Spanish club experiencing a challenging campaign.
With negotiations for a new contract at the Santiago Bernabeu reportedly stalled, this presents a significant opportunity for Arteta’s side to secure one of the top attacking talents in the sport.
However, Spanish publication SPORT indicates that the Gunners will need to break the British transfer record to secure his services. The current record stands at £125 million, following Alexander Isak’s transfer from Newcastle United to Liverpool last summer.
Real Madrid’s manager, Jose Mourinho, has reportedly expressed his desire for Vinicius Jr. to stay in the Spanish capital.
The Telegraph states that Mourinho opposes the notion of the Brazilian departing the Santiago Bernabeu to join Arteta’s squad.
Nevertheless, Real may need to generate funds, as reports suggest they are considering a £102 million move for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande.
Should Diomande opt for Real, it could enhance the likelihood of Vinicius Jr. making a move to the Emirates Stadium this summer.
