Vinicius Jr not coming, Sky Sports confirms
The dream is over, at least for this summer. Sky Sports report Vinicius Jr is staying at Real Madrid, ending Arsenal's pursuit of the Brazilian winger (2) (5). Spanish and Portuguese outlets back it up, Vinicius stays at the Bernabeu (6) (7). Metro Sport had earlier suggested Arteta was enthusiastic about working with him, but that door now looks firmly shut (14).
Liverpool move for Barcola while Arsenal chased Vinicius
While your club went all-in on Vinicius, Liverpool have reached a verbal agreement with PSG winger Bradley Barcola (11) (12). Another attacking option slips away. The domino effect of the Vinicius chase is starting to show.
Bruno Guimaraes deal: Newcastle may have his replacement ready
FourFourTwo report Newcastle have already lined up Aladji Bamba from Monaco, a young midfielder whose main strength is playing against a low block with clever short passes (8). It suggests Bruno Guimaraes is heading out. But Sky's paper round notes he is not forcing the move, Arsenal may need patience on this one (10).
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Kounde available, but Tottenham are circling
Barcelona are ready to sell Jules Kounde, and your club are interested (9). The catch: Tottenham are in the race too. Kounde would add experience at right-back, where you already have Ben White, Jurrien Timber, and Christhian Mosquera.
Brahim Diaz: Madrid will sell on one condition
Real Madrid are open to letting Brahim Diaz leave, but only if he asks to go (16). He wants to stay and fight for his place. Arsenal have held long-term interest, though this one looks like a waiting game.
Tomiyasu available on a free
Takehiro Tomiyasu is a free agent. Reports link Arsenal with a potential reunion for defensive cover, though the club are not actively pursuing it (15). Tomiyasu himself posted: "I'll support the team as a Gooner alongside all of you" (15).
Laila Harbert leaves for San Diego
Academy midfielder Laila Harbert has joined San Diego Wave on a permanent deal (1). Arsenal retain a first-refusal clause if she returns to England.
Fan reactions
The mood on r/Gunners is split. The Vinicius news landed with a collective sigh, fans on r/soccer and r/realmadrid are treating it as settled. But the Bruno Guimaraes thread has real energy: ESPN Brasil's Bruno Andrade reports Arsenal have increased their bid to £70m plus £5m in bonuses, calling it a "matter of honor" for the club to demonstrate market strength. Read the full discussion here.
