Arsenal nearly signed Vinicius Jr in the summer, sources have confirmed. The Brazilian's future at Real Madrid is now in question due to a difficult period, which has raised fresh doubts about his role in the team.
Real Madrid made a new offer to Vinicius, and he ultimately decided to stay with the club. However, several months later, there are growing concerns about whether this decision was the right one.
Vinicius has faced a challenging time, with friction, disciplinary issues, and a dip in form contributing to uncertainty over his place in the team's long-term plans. The arrival of Yan Diomande has changed the picture, and he is settling in well, showing promising form, and fitting comfortably into the team's demands.
This has brought fresh scrutiny of Vinicius and the role he is expected to play. Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Vinicius will start Real Madrid's Champions League game, giving him an opportunity to make an impression and demonstrate his quality and influence.
There is no indication that Real Madrid are actively looking to move him on, especially considering they secured his commitment recently. However, the circumstances around his summer decision have taken on a different complexion, with Arsenal having come closer than many might have realized to bringing him to the Premier League.
For Vinicius, the priority now is to regain his best form and show that Real Madrid were right to convince him to stay.