What happened?
Arsenal have reportedly ramped up their pursuit of Kaua Elias after learning that Vinicius Junior is set to extend his Real Madrid contract. The Brazilian winger's new deal is expected to make him one of the untouchable players at the Bernabeu, leaving Arsenal's chances of signing him slim.
Why it matters for Arsenal
The final details of Vinicius Jr's extension are still being ironed out, but all indications point to the talismanic forward staying at Real Madrid. With that avenue now closed, Arsenal have shifted their focus to Elias, who strengthened his rising reputation on Monday by leading Shakhtar's emphatic 5-1 win over Kudrivka.
What comes next?
Arsenal were amongst the clubs present to witness Elias' impressive display, according to The Sun, with Manchester United, AC Milan, and FC Porto also monitoring the striker. Scouts from both Arsenal and United are reported to have provided 'extremely glowing evaluations' of the 20-year-old. The Ukrainian champions are said to value him at approximately £30million, and the expectation is that Arsenal are now considering an official offer.
Arsenal's interest in Elias has been building for several weeks, and his recent hat-trick essentially provided the club with the impetus to intensify their pursuit. United, meanwhile, are also looking to bolster their attacking options this summer, especially with Joshua Zirkzee's future uncertain amid Serie A interest. Milan and Porto remain in contention, but Arsenal and United are regarded as being in the strongest position financially - both able to trigger the player's release clause and present an attractive package.
Elias himself is believed to be receptive to a switch to one of Europe's top leagues, assuming he's offered a sporting project that corresponds with his development and long-term aspirations. Since his arrival from Fluminense in 2025, the Brazilian has registered 12 goals and three assists across 39 outings for Shakhtar - a record that's enhanced his standing as one of the most complete young attackers coming through from South America.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 1st in Premier League, 85 pts, 26W-7D-5L from 38 games, recent form WWWWW.
Goals this season: 71 scored, 27 conceded (+44 goal difference).
Lead at the top: 7 points clear of Manchester City.
Last result: Crystal Palace 1-2 Arsenal (2026-05-24).
Recent form (last 5): 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW, most recent first); on a 5-game winning run.
Next fixture: vs Coventry (at home, 2026-08-21).
Currently sidelined: Ben White.
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