Mikel Arteta sends Vinicius Jr transfer message ahead of Real Madrid meeting

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Mikel Arteta is spearheading Arsenal's move to sign Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid this summer. The Gunners are in hot pursuit of the Brazil star, and he has been informed that he would play a central role at the Emirates.

Arsenal have been strongly linked with a move for the Real Madrid star amid uncertainty over whether he will agree to fresh terms with Los Blancos. Vinicius has just 12 months left on his deal at the Bernabeu, and the north London side are looking to take advantage of the uncertainty.

Despite his contract situation, it is reported that a transfer fee could still climb as high as £130million to secure the forward's services. Arteta and co have stressed to the player that Arsenal's project would be built largely around him, a proposition that carries less weight in the Spanish capital, according to AS.

Arsenal's chase comes as Vinicius holds talks with Real Madrid following his return from the summer break. The two-time Champions League winner's verdict is expected to arrive after his discussions with the La Liga club's hierarchy.

Real Madrid are said to be unwilling to revise their latest contract proposal to Vinicius and believe the ball is now firmly in the player's court . The Gunners are prepared to make a significant contract offer.

Should he opt against extending his stay, Real Madrid will entertain offers for his departure. It has been previously reported that Vinicius is in no hurry to commit his future, though new manager Jose Mourinho was prepared to intervene to retain his prized assets.

Arsenal have been transparent about their aspirations this summer, despite refusing to be drawn specifically on the Real Madrid star. Arteta has acknowledged that the Gunners have scope to develop.

"A lot is happening. We all know about the context of this transfer window," the Gunners boss said.

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"From ownership to the board, the sporting director and myself, we know that we want to take this club to a different level. That is going to require a better squad, better individuals.

"We have identified where we have opportunities to grow and to improve and to evolve our game and what is going to be needed to achieve that. Hopefully, very soon we can start to put things in a very concrete way."

Arsenal are also pursuing Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. Vinicius' compatriot is reportedly keen on a switch to the Emirates as the Magpies contend with the departures of Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and manager Eddie Howe.

It has been suggested that a medical is arranged for Guimaraes, though reports from the north east have indicated that speculation of a transfer being finalised are hasty.