Brazilian superstar Vinicius Jr has penned a contract extension with Real Madrid, committing his future to the Spanish giants until 2032. This development brings an end to Premier League champions Arsenal's hopes of acquiring the winger this summer.
Arsenal had reportedly been keen to sign Vinicius, who had only one year remaining on his previous contract at the Santiago Bernabeu. Negotiations between Vinicius and Real Madrid had initially stalled, with a significant gap in their stances on a new deal.
However, as Arsenal made progress in their own negotiations, Real Madrid reportedly increased their offer to secure Vinicius's commitment. Real Madrid stated, "Vinicius Jr has become one of the most important players in one of the most successful periods in our history."
The extension prolongs Vinicius's eight-year tenure at the club, during which he has scored 128 goals in 375 appearances and secured 14 titles, including two Champions Leagues and three LaLiga titles. His new deal is set to expire less than two weeks before his 32nd birthday. Meanwhile, Arsenal are reportedly close to signing his Brazil teammate Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle.