Vinicius Jr to Arsenal: Why Real Madrid players were shocked summer transfer didn't happen

Both the Gunners and the Premier League are said to have had big plans for the Brazilian

Vinicius Jr was so close to joining Arsenal that Real Madrid team-mates were stunned when the transfer collapsed.

That is according to a new report in Spanish publication Cadena SER, who report that many in the Real Madrid dressing room believed a blockbuster move to Arsenal was a foregone conclusion during the summer as contract talks with Santiago Bernabeu chiefs stalled.

The proposed move was seen as significant not only for the Gunners but also the Premier League as a whole. Cadena SER reports that the league had plans to promote Vinicius as one of its leading global stars, rivalling Manchester City's Erling Haaland and Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.

Vinicius ended up staying put after agreeing a new contract with Real Madrid, and the uncertainty around his future is said to have not affected his relationship with his team-mates. The report claims that the Brazilian remains one of the most trusted members in the squad.

The same cannot be said for his role on the pitch, though. From once regarded as a leading contender for the Ballon d'Or, his recent form has prompted criticism from fans and suggestions he could drop to the bench.

Summer signing Yan Diomande, who cost around £120million, is ready to take Vinicius’s starting spot, with head coach Jose Mourinho expected to mull over the future role of Vinicius during the current international break.

Vinicius Jr ultimately decided to stay put, passing on becoming the headline attraction of the biggest domestic league in the world. He now faces an uncertain future questions over his place in the Real Madrid starting XI.