Posted by Chinenye on Thu 06th Aug, 2026 - tori.ng
Former Chelsea star John Mikel Obi has weighed in on growing transfer rumours involving Vinicius Junior and Arsenal.
(John Mikel Obi. Photo by Sky News)
Former Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi has dismissed speculation that Vinicius Junior will transfer to Arsenal this summer, contending that the Brazilian forward is leveraging interest from the Gunners to secure improved contract terms at Real Madrid.
Speaking on his latest podcast episode, Mikel acknowledged Arsenal's stature as a major club but maintained with certainty that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez will not permit the departure of his star player.
He expressed full confidence that Vinicius will remain at Madrid, characterising the player's apparent negotiations with Arsenal as a contractual negotiation tactic rather than genuine transfer intent.
Mikel stressed that Real Madrid's refusal to consider any offer makes a move to Arsenal untenable, regardless of the English club's standing in European football.