Arsenal’s pursuit of Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr has encountered a setback as the player confirmed ongoing positive discussions with Real Madrid’s new head coach, Jose Mourinho. The 26-year-old's current contract, which pays him approximately £400,000 per week, is set to expire next summer, adding uncertainty to his future at the club.

According to reports from Spain, Real Madrid plans to offer Vinicius a significant contract extension, potentially increasing his salary by nearly £4 million, raising his annual earnings past £15 million. The club intends to begin formal contract negotiations this week amid continued speculation about his next move.

Speaking publicly on his relationship with Mourinho, Vinicius expressed optimism, highlighting his efforts to adapt to the new manager and teammates during training sessions. “I am very well, getting to know the new manager, the new players and working really hard in training,” he said. He added that Mourinho encourages him to maintain his happiness, positivity, and individual style of play.

While Arsenal’s hopes of signing Vinicius appear diminished, interest from other Premier League clubs remains evident. Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly targeting Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson as part of their ongoing summer recruitment drive. Jackson, a 25-year-old Senegal international who featured at the recent World Cup, is currently on Chelsea’s pre-season tour.

Tottenham’s Italian manager, Roberto De Zerbi, has pledged to deliver another major signing this transfer window, following a summer spending spree that has seen the club invest approximately £229.5 million. The pursuit of Jackson reflects Spurs’ ambition to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season.

The transfer window is expected to remain active in the coming weeks, with several high-profile negotiations still unfolding across Europe’s leading leagues. Arsenal’s focus may now shift to alternative targets after the apparent progress in Vinicius’s talks with Real Madrid and Mourinho.