Arsenal’s ambition to sign Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid has quickly become one of the biggest transfer stories of the 2026 summer window. While the Brazilian superstar is reportedly open to considering his future with only one year left on his contract, bringing him to the Emirates Stadium would require a massive financial commitment.
The Gunners have already invested heavily in strengthening their squad, leaving limited room for another blockbuster transfer unless they generate significant funds through player sales. Reports suggest Arsenal may need to part ways with as many as eight players to make a serious offer for Vinicius Junior.
If the North London club truly wants one of the world’s most explosive attackers, difficult decisions could lie ahead.
Arsenal’s Summer Spending Continues to Rise
Arsenal have not been quiet during the current transfer window.
The club has already spent approximately £68.5 million to secure Christos Tzolis and complete the permanent signing of Piero Hincapie. While those additions strengthen Mikel Arteta’s squad, they also increase pressure on Arsenal’s financial balance.
On the outgoing side, Arsenal have recovered around £32.6 million through the sales of:
- Leandro Trossard
- Jakub Kiwior
- Karl Hein
Although those departures helped offset spending, they are unlikely to provide enough financial flexibility for a transfer involving Vinicius Junior.
Why Vinicius Junior Remains an Expensive Target
Despite entering the final year of his Real Madrid contract, Vinicius Junior remains one of football’s most valuable players.
His pace, creativity, and ability to decide major matches make him one of Europe’s elite wingers.
Several factors continue to keep his transfer value extremely high:
- World-class performances in recent seasons.
- Prime footballing age.
- Commercial appeal worldwide.
- Proven success in major competitions.
- Consistent attacking production.
Because of those qualities, Arsenal would likely need a significant transfer budget before submitting a competitive proposal.
Gabriel Jesus Could Be Among the First Departures
Gabriel Jesus appears to be one of the most realistic players Arsenal could sell this summer.
The Brazilian striker has struggled with injuries since arriving from Manchester City in 2022 and started only three Premier League matches last season.
Although his market value has declined compared to the £45 million Arsenal originally paid, the club could still recover a respectable transfer fee.
With only one year remaining on his contract, selling Jesus now may be the most practical financial decision.
Gabriel Martinelli Faces Uncertain Future
Another surprising name linked with a possible exit is Gabriel Martinelli.
The arrival of Christos Tzolis has increased competition on the wings, while Martinelli endured a disappointing league campaign, scoring just one Premier League goal.
Arsenal signed him for roughly £6 million back in 2019, meaning almost any transfer fee would represent a substantial profit.
Considering his age and potential, Martinelli would likely attract interest from several European clubs.
Ben White No Longer Untouchable
Ben White was once considered one of Arsenal’s most reliable defenders.
However, the emergence of Jurrien Timber and Cristhian Mosquera has created greater competition across the back line.
White featured in only twelve Premier League matches last season, reducing his importance within the squad.
At 28 years old and under contract until 2028, he still possesses considerable transfer value.
Selling White could provide Arsenal with one of their largest transfer fees this summer.
Martin Odegaard’s Name Creates the Biggest Surprise
Perhaps the most shocking player linked with a possible departure is club captain Martin Odegaard.
The Norwegian midfielder managed only one goal across 36 appearances last season, leading to questions about his attacking influence.
Despite that disappointing club campaign, Odegaard impressed at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by registering four assists for Norway.
His current situation includes:
- Two years remaining on his contract.
- Strong international performances.
- High market value.
- Leadership experience.
- Interest from several European giants.
Although selling the captain would be controversial, Arsenal could consider the move if it significantly improves their chances of landing Vinicius Junior.
Young Talent Could Also Leave
Arsenal may also sacrifice promising youngster Ethan Nwaneri.
The 19-year-old midfielder spent last season on loan at Marseille but managed only two goals in eleven appearances.
While many still believe in his long-term potential, Arsenal reportedly rate Max Dowman even higher.
Nwaneri’s youth alone could generate strong interest from clubs looking to develop future stars.
Goalkeeper Situation Could Change
Kepa Arrizabalaga is another player whose future remains uncertain.
Following the arrival of Illan Meslier on a free transfer, Kepa has fallen further down the goalkeeping hierarchy behind David Raya.
If another club offers him a regular starting role, Arsenal would likely be willing to negotiate a transfer.
Although the fee may not be enormous, every sale would contribute toward financing a marquee signing.
Fabio Vieira and Reiss Nelson Could Complete the Clear-Out
Fabio Vieira rebuilt some of his reputation during a productive loan spell with Hamburg, scoring seven goals.
The German club reportedly wants to sign him permanently.
With his contract approaching its final year, Arsenal may prefer selling him now rather than risking a free transfer later.
Meanwhile, Reiss Nelson also faces an uncertain future.
After underwhelming loan spells at Brentford and Fulham, the academy graduate has struggled to establish himself as a consistent first-team option.
As his contract also enters its final year, Arsenal could accept a suitable offer.
Players Arsenal Could Sell to Fund Vinicius Junior
If Arsenal decide to move forward with the transfer, these eight players are considered possible departures:
- Gabriel Jesus
- Gabriel Martinelli
- Ben White
- Martin Odegaard
- Ethan Nwaneri
- Kepa Arrizabalaga
- Fabio Vieira
- Reiss Nelson
Selling several of these players would significantly strengthen Arsenal’s financial position before entering negotiations with Real Madrid.
Is Vinicius Junior Worth the Sacrifice?
There is little doubt that Vinicius Junior would immediately become one of Arsenal’s biggest stars. His speed, creativity, and ability to change games could elevate Mikel Arteta’s attack to another level.
However, losing multiple experienced players—including influential figures like Martin Odegaard or Gabriel Martinelli—would dramatically reshape the squad.
The coming weeks could become decisive for Arsenal’s transfer strategy. If the club believes Vinicius Junior is the missing piece capable of delivering Premier League and Champions League success, sacrificing several squad members may be a price they are willing to pay.
Whether Arsenal ultimately complete the deal or not, one thing is clear: the pursuit of Vinicius Junior has the potential to become one of the defining transfer sagas of the 2026 summer window.
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