Arsenal line up four alternatives as Vinicius Jr pursuit stalls
Mikel Arteta’s side have identified a shortlist of four attackers to fall back on if their ambitious move for Real Madrid’s Brazilian star falls through.
Arsenal have drawn up contingency plans in case their determined chase of Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior ends without success. The north London club are desperate to add a top-class left-sided forward, but Madrid’s firm stance on keeping the Brazilian means the recruitment team cannot rely on one difficult deal.
Four very different alternatives have now been identified: RB Leipzig’s Antonio Nusa, AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic, Paris Saint-Germain youngster Ibrahim Mbaye and Real Madrid’s own Brahim Díaz. The list mixes immediate experience, long-term potential and tactical versatility.
Nusa leads the alternative shortlist
Sources close to the agents industry have indicated that Nusa currently sits at the top of Arsenal’s back-up options. The Gunners are expected to explore Leipzig’s demands before deciding whether to table a formal bid. The German side are thought to value the Norwegian at around £51 million, and Arsenal face competition from other Premier League clubs.
Pulisic offers the most proven option. The former Chelsea wide man knows the English game well and has rebuilt his reputation in Serie A with Milan. His ability to play on either flank would give Arteta an established performer rather than another developmental project. Mbaye, at 18, would be a long-term investment, while Díaz could provide immediate creativity across several attacking positions.
Arteta’s side are right to prepare alternatives because waiting indefinitely for an uncertain Madrid deal could leave them scrambling late in the window. The left side of their attack still needs greater unpredictability and individual quality, particularly against opponents who defend deep.
Finding the right fit
Pulisic would be the safest short-term choice, but his Chelsea history and likely salary could complicate negotiations. Mbaye has enormous potential, although asking an 18-year-old to make an immediate impact in a title-chasing side would be risky. Díaz is technically excellent and tactically flexible, but he prefers drifting inside rather than consistently stretching the pitch.
Nusa appears to offer the best compromise. He is young enough to improve but experienced enough to contribute immediately. His acceleration, close control and willingness to attack defenders would give Arsenal a natural threat on the left. The Premier League target may bring less worldwide attention than Vinicius, yet his profile could fit Arteta’s system more naturally and leave room for further investment elsewhere.
The Madrid superstar remains the dream signing, but Arsenal should not allow one glamorous pursuit to distract them from completing the right deal. With the transfer window still open, the club’s recruitment team will now weigh up which of the four alternatives offers the best balance of quality, value and fit.