Arsenal could be handed an unexpected opportunity to pursue Vinicius Jr, after reports from Spain claim that members of Real Madrid's board have begun recommending the sale of the 26-year-old Brazilian winger.

According to Fichajes, several board members have advised Real Madrid president Florentino Perez to consider moving Vinicius Jr on — either in January or next summer — with an asking price of approximately €150 million set to initiate any negotiations.

Diomande's rise changes the picture

The catalyst behind this shift appears to be 19-year-old new signing Yan Diomande, who seized his opportunity following Vinicius Jr's four-match suspension — handed down after the Brazilian was sent off against Villarreal.

Diomande has delivered a string of impressive performances in his senior's absence, including an applauded display during Real Madrid's El Clasico victory over Barcelona — a match Vinicius Jr missed entirely. Kylian Mbappe scored both goals in that win, while Diomande's growing influence has reportedly sparked internal discussions at the Bernabeu about the future of Brazil's star attacker.

Fichajes notes that Real Madrid hold a strong negotiating position. Vinicius Jr signed a contract extension until June 30, 2032, announced officially last August, meaning the club is under no immediate pressure to sell. Any interested party would need to submit an offer that compensates Real Madrid for losing one of their most electric players.

Arsenal's need and the wider picture

This season in La Liga, Vinicius Jr has contributed one goal and three assists across eight appearances — productive but no longer unchallenged at the Bernabeu.

Arsenal were strongly linked with a move for Vinicius Jr during the last summer transfer window before ultimately shifting their focus elsewhere. Manager Mikel Arteta boasts a talented pool of wide players, including Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze among others. However, injuries to Saka and others have left the Gunners stretched for options on the flanks during a congested fixture run.

Whether Arsenal move for Vinicius Jr in January or wait until the summer remains unclear — but the reported internal pressure at Real Madrid may force a decision sooner than expected.