Arsenal shift focus on Barcelona forward Ferran Torres after Vinicius Jr miss

Arsenal have reportedly shifted their focus to other targets after missing out on Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr, as they continue to strengthen the squad for the 2026/27 campaign, with Barcelona’s Ferran Torres in sight as an alternative.

Los Blancos officially announced the Brazilian international’s commitment to extend his contract at the Spanish capital on Thursday, after over 18 months of negotiation with the player and his camp.

The news, however, has shut down any hopes of the Gunners securing the signature of one of the hottest attackers of the modern game.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is keen on bolstering his attacking options before the transfer window shuts, as they remain forced to explore alternatives after missing out on several high-profile names.

Meanwhile, the Premier League champions have made some significant signings this summer, with statement signings such as Bruno Guimaraes, Piero Hincapié, Illan Meslier, and Christos Tzolis arriving at the Emirates Stadium in this window.

However, the search for an elite wide man has proven far more difficult for Arteta than winning the English championship after 22 years.

The north London side have recently missed out on several targets to rivals as well. The most recent one is Chelsea snatching Morgan Rogers right from their noses.

At the same time, their pursuit of Bradley Barcola has hit a major snag as the Paris Saint-Germain star has reportedly chosen a move to Anfield over the Emirates.

The World Cup winner has become a primary target for Arsenal, and they are “exploring” a move for the forward, according to CaughtOffside.

The former Manchester City man is a familiar face to Arteta and offers the versatility the Gunners crave in the final third. While Torres has been heavily linked with a move to PSG, a deal has yet to be finalised.

The 26-year-old has added fuel to the fire by challenging the La Liga champions, Barcelona, to prove they want to keep him. During the club’s pre-season tour of the United States, Torres made it clear that he expects the Blaugrana to initiate talks if they value his contribution.

Speaking to Sportico, Torres stated: “Barca has to show they want me. They can come and negotiate, and in the end, everything will be discussed.”

The Spaniard also conceded how flattering it was to be linked with other elite European clubs. Addressing speculation about his future and a possible move to the Parc des Princes, the forward remarked: “Whenever clubs of that calibre want you, it’s always a positive thing.”