France legend Marcel Desailly believes Real Madrid should have sold Vinicius Junior this summer amid significant transfer interest from Arsenal.

The Brazil international emerged as a blockbuster target for Mikel Arteta’s side in July and, as reported by FootballTransfers at the time, the Premier League champions were ready to do whatever it took to complete a deal.

However, Real Madrid eventually reached a contract extension agreement with Vinicius and he penned a lucrative new deal valid until 2032 in August.

Although he opted to extend his stay at the Bernabeu, Vinicius has endured a tough start to the new season, registering just four goal contributions in 10 games, and he was withdrawn in the 59th minute versus AS Roma on Wednesday, with Real Madrid 3-1 down at the time.

The Spanish giants mounted a stunning comeback to secure a famous 4-3 win after Vinicius’ substitution, and Desailly believes Real Madrid should look to offload him permanently in order to improve the balance of Jose Mourinho’s squad.

“I think Real Madrid should have let Vinicius leave. They need to look for other players,” Desially told beIN Sports (via GOAL).

“Once again, we are talking about the partnership between Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius. This partnership has not proven successful.

“So, in my personal opinion as an analyst, I think it would be better for him to leave, and let’s see whether he would be able to erase all the negative thoughts and opinions directed towards him.”

Could Arsenal sign Vinicius Jr in 2027?

Despite missing out on both Vinicius and Morgan Rogers over the summer, Arsenal still sanctioned the sale of Gabriel Martinelli to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal and this decision has left them short in attack.

As a result, it has been widely reported that signing a new left winger is their priority transfer goal for 2027, with the club ready to back Arteta in the market as they look to establish themselves as the dominant force in English football.

Kenan Yildiz and Kevin Schade are among the stars believed to be on Arsenal’s radar, although the Gunners could look to rekindle their interest in Vinicius if Real Madrid decide to sanction a sale.