Arsenal have been told that they are going to have to dig deep if they are going to land Sporting Lisbon’s young midfielder William Carvalho.

Carvalho has been branded “the new Patrick Vieira” for his performances in Portugal this season, which has also resulted in 2 goals in his 13 games.

The 21-year-old has been on the radar of a number of English clubs, most prominently Manchester United and Arsenal. However the player’s complicated ownership status as well as his large contract could provide a stumbling block.

Carvalho has played for his native Portugal at every level since U17, making 48 appearances in all, including 1 senior cap. He came on as a second half substitute in Portugal’s infamous 3-2 win over Sweden back in November, sending the side to the 2014 World Cup.

The number 14 impressed especially last season, playing for Belgian side Cercle Brugge. He made 53 appearances there scoring 3 times before being recalled back to Portugal to help take his side to the top of the Primeira Liga.

Tied down

As aforementioned, Carvalho’s ownership status may cause problems should any transfer become successful.

Sporting themselves own just 60% of the player, while an exterior business known as BES own the remaining 40%.Then there is the issue of the youngster’s contract. He is bound to the Portuguese club until 2018 with a buyout clause entailing a staggering €45million.

In a report by Portuguese newspaper Record, it was claimed that Arsene Wenger had asked for a dossier to be written on the player, with scouts likely to make the move to watch Carvalho in coming games.

“Arsenal are carefully looking at William Carvalho”, the newspaper headed, with the sub-headline “Wenger has asked for a detailed report”.

Yet despite all the interest in the starlet, Sporting chairman Bruno de Carvalho (no relation!) has insisted that the player will stay with the club for the duration of his contract:

"We are not interested in the exit of this player." He also told Record.

British tabloids have claimed that Wenger is readying a £12million bid to test the club’s resolve.

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