Arsenal’s Calafiori demands ‘this type of player’ amid Vinicius transfer reports

Ricardo Calafiori says Arsenal need to sign players of Vinicius Junior’s calibre if they are to improve on last season and challenge again for major honours.

The Arsenal defender was asked about reports linking the club with a move for the Real Madrid forward after the Gunners’ 3-1 friendly defeat by Real Betis on Wednesday.

Vinicius’ future at Real Madrid remains uncertain, with the Brazil international’s contract situation yet to be resolved. His current deal runs until June 2027, but negotiations over an extension have not reached an agreement.

Real Madrid have improved their initial offer to the attacker, although it is understood that the revised proposal still does not meet Vinicius’ demands. With his long-term position at the Spanish club unclear, reports have connected him with Arsenal, who finished as runners-up in the Champions League.

Calafiori was also asked about speculation involving Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, as well as the potential impact both players could have if they joined Arsenal. According to Spanish newspaper AS, the Italy international was questioned about the level such signings could bring to the north London club.

He replied: “We are now at this level. We are at the top, and we want to win the league again. We want to be better than we were last season, if possible, so we need this type of player.”

The comments represent a clear indication of the ambition within Arsenal’s squad as the club seeks to strengthen during the current summer transfer window. Calafiori’s remarks also reflect the expectations surrounding a side that is aiming to compete at the highest level of domestic and European football.

Arsenal are reportedly close to completing a deal for Bruno Guimaraes. If that transfer is concluded and Vinicius were also to arrive, the club would make a significant leap in competitive terms.

However, the situation involving Vinicius remains unresolved. There has been no confirmation that Arsenal will complete a deal for the forward, while Real Madrid’s efforts to improve their contract offer have so far failed to satisfy him.

For now, the Brazilian’s future continues to be the subject of speculation. Arsenal’s interest, combined with the uncertainty over his contract, has placed Vinicius among the most prominent names linked with the club this summer.

Calafiori’s message was nevertheless unambiguous: with Arsenal seeking to win the league again and improve on their previous campaign, he believes the team requires additions capable of performing at the very highest level.