SportFootballVinicius JuniorArsenal would be interested in signing Brazil star Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid should he fail to sign a new contract in Spain, but it appears that Jose Mourinho is keen to halt an exit17:40, 25 Jul 2026Updated 17:40, 25 Jul 2026Arsenal's potential move for Vinicius Junior looks set to be ruined before it’s even begun, with Jose Mourinho poised to intervene. The Gunners hold an interest in the Brazil international, who sees his contract at the Bernabeu expire next summer.‌The North London side have explored a move, with Gunners chiefs having approved a move at all levels of the club. As it stands, no club-to-club talks have taken place, as first reported by The Athletic.‌Real would be keen on selling Vinicius for a considerable fee as opposed to losing him for nothing at the end of his deal. But it appears that new boss Jose Mourinho might want a say.‌According to The Telegraph, the former Chelsea and Manchester United boss would put a stop to any exit after expressing a desire for all of his key players to remain at the club ahead of his first season in charge following his return.Mourinho returned to Madrid in the summer following a spell with Portuguese side Benfica. He was named as Alvaro Arbeloa’s replacement, the Spaniard having now joined Fulham following his exit.Mourinho’s relationship with Vinicius was already under the spotlight ahead of his move back to Spain. His comments after the Brazilian was allegedly racially abused by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni in a Champions League showdown between the two teams were widely criticised.‌Asked at the time if the winger had aggravated the crowd, Mourinho replied: “Yes. I believe so."It should be the crazy moment of the game, an amazing goal. Unfortunately [he was] not just happy to score that astonishing goal. When you score a goal like that, you celebrate in a respectful way."‌He added: "I told [Vinicius], when you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back. When he was arguing about racism, I told him the biggest person in the history of this club [Eusebio] was black."This club, the last thing that it is, is racist. If in his mind there was something in relation to that, this is Benfica. They [Vinicius and Prestianni] told me different things. But I don't believe in one or another. I want to be an independent."Vinicius has been with Real Madrid since a move from Brazilian side Flamengo in 2018. He has made 376 appearances since then and has scored 128 goals, helping Real to three league titles, two Champions Leagues and much more.Article continues belowJoin our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Jose MourinhoArsenal FCReal Madrid CFArsenal transfer newsVinicius JuniorReal Madrid transfer news