Arteta 'not going to talk' on Vinicius Jr Arsenal links

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta refused to be drawn on mounting speculation linking Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr with a blockbuster move to the Emirates, insisting he would not discuss players contracted to other clubs.

"I'm not going to talk about any player who isn't ours," Arteta said after Arsenal's 4-1 pre-season victory over Girona on Saturday.

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The Spaniard, however, reiterated the club's ambition to strengthen before the transfer window closes on August 31.

"I'm very happy with the squad we have. Obviously, we want to improve it and the club is actively working to do so. We are ambitious," he added.

Vinicius is due to report back for Real Madrid's pre-season training on Monday following his post-World Cup break. Whether he resumes preparations for another season at the Santiago Bernabeu or becomes the subject of serious negotiations with Arsenal remains to be seen.

The Brazil international has emerged as one of the biggest names linked with Arsenal this summer after reports in England claimed he has yet to agree a contract extension with Real Madrid. Several outlets have also suggested Arsenal have reached an agreement on personal terms with the 26-year-old, although any deal would still require negotiations with the Spanish giants over a transfer fee expected to exceed €100 million.

Arteta also sidestepped questions over reported interest in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, another player linked with Arsenal in recent weeks.

Reports have suggested the Gunners are preparing a €100 million bid for the Argentina international, while British media claimed Viktor Gyokeres could be included as part of the deal. Arteta, however, dismissed any suggestion the Swedish striker could leave.

"He's staying," the Arsenal boss said.

Despite Alvarez publicly expressing his desire to leave Atletico Madrid during the World Cup, the Spanish club have maintained he is not for sale. The Argentine remains under contract until 2030, with Atletico pointing to his €500 million release clause amid interest from several clubs.

Arsenal have already strengthened significantly this summer with the arrivals of Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United, Greece winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge and former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier. Whether Vinicius or Alvarez joins them before the transfer window closes remains uncertain, but Arteta made one thing clear: he will not fuel speculation over players who are not yet part of his squad.