Arteta Refuses to Comment on Rumors Linking Vinícius to Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has refused to comment on rumours linking Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior with a move to the Emirates, insisting he will not discuss players who are already signed by other clubs.

“I won’t talk about players who aren’t ours,” Arteta said after Arsenal’s 4-1 pre-season win over Girona on Saturday.

However, the Spanish coach reiterated the club’s desire to strengthen the team before the transfer window closes on August 31.

He added, “I’m very happy with the squad we have. Obviously, we want to improve it further and the club is actively working towards that goal. We are ambitious.”

Vinicius is set to join Real Madrid’s pre-season training camp on Monday after his World Cup break. It remains to be seen whether he will start preparing for another season at the Santiago Bernabeu or become the subject of a major deal with Arsenal.

English media reports claim that Vinicius Junior has yet to agree a contract extension with Real Madrid. The Brazilian forward has since emerged as one of the biggest signings for Arsenal this summer. Several media outlets have suggested that Arsenal have agreed personal terms with the 26-year-old. However, any deal would require negotiations with the Spanish giants over a transfer fee, which is believed to be in excess of €100 million.

Arteta also dodged questions about Atletico Madrid striker Julián Alvarez, who has been linked with Arsenal in recent weeks.

Reports suggest the Gunners are preparing a €100m bid for the Argentina international. British media, on the other hand, claim that Victor Yucares could be included as part of the deal. However, Arteta has ruled out the possibility that the Swedish striker could leave the club.

Arsenal chief says, ‘He’s staying.’

Alvarez publicly expressed his desire to leave Atletico Madrid during the World Cup, but the Spanish club are adamant that he will not be sold. The Argentine, who is under contract until 2030, has a release clause of 500 million euros, which has attracted interest from several clubs.

Arsenal have already bolstered their squad this summer with the signings of Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United, Greek winger Christos Zolis from Club Brugge and former Leeds United goalkeeper Ilan Meslier. It is uncertain whether Vinicius or Alvarez will join them before the transfer window closes. But Arteta has made one thing clear: he will not fuel any speculation about those who are not yet part of his squad.