Arsenal Enter Negotiations with Stuttgart Over Talented Playmaker

Arsenal are actively engaged in transfer discussions with Bundesliga club VfB Stuttgart regarding the permanent transfer of Fábio Vieira. Stuttgart have approached the club to explore a deal, although both parties are yet to agree on specific terms. With Vieira no longer featuring in Mikel Arteta’s plans, a move abroad appears increasingly likely. 

Vieira, who joined Arsenal from FC Porto in July 2022, struggled to establish himself consistently, registering only 33 appearances and 2 goals during his stay. He spent the 2024/25 season back on loan at Porto, where he tallied four goals and as many assists. The midfielder has been omitted from Arsenal’s pre-season squad in Asia, reinforcing indications he’ll not be part of the first-team setup this season. 

With two years remaining on his contract, Arsenal are targeting a “respectable” transfer fee to facilitate the sale. Sources suggest the club paid around €60m–70m for Martín Zubimendi this summer, emphasizing their willingness to recoup investment and allocate wages elsewhere. That heavy spending - including Gyökeres, Nørgaard, Madueke, and Mosquera puts further pressure on squad space.

Stuttgart currently lead negotiations, but Premier League side West Ham United and Italy’s Parma have also reviewed contract possibilities. The final fee is likely to range between €20m to €30m, striking a balance between recouping value and offering the player a fresh start. Arsenal’s sporting director appears to be carving out first-team openings for creative reinforcements like Eberechi Eze and fostering depth behind Martin Ødegaard.

Fan reactions have been mixed: some believe Vieira still has untapped potential, while others accept that he’s been crowded out by a clearer midfield structure at the Emirates. Reddit threads point to concerns about his physicality and consistency, questioning whether he fits Arteta’s high-pressing approach. Others suggest a move to Stuttgart where he would play a key creative role could reignite his career.

If the deal progresses smoothly, Arsenal and Stuttgart could conclude negotiations before the end of August. Until then, the focus remains on Arsenal strengthening midfield while balancing squad numbers. For Vieira, a move represents an opportunity to rebuild under regular football, and for Arsenal, it’s about fine-tuning a squad built to challenge again.