Reports from The Telegraph are claiming that the Gunners are ready to sign Portuguese midfielder William Carvalho from under Manchester United’s nose.

According to this paper, Arsenal are hoping to finalise a deal for the Sporting Lisbon star within the next couple of weeks to help bolster the midfield.

Wenger is an admirer of Carvalho and was the club were heavily linked with this holding midfielder during the summer, with an apparent failed Deadline Day bid for him.

It is being reported that Manchester United now have their eyes on the Portuguese international which means the Gunners may have to act fast and pay than they want to if they want to secure the services of Carvalho.

Wenger has spoken of looking for a player who has a “a physical presence with prodigious ability like Vieira or Petit”, so William Carvalho certainly fits the bill. Carvalho is big (6ft 2’, 14stone) is very strong and very good with the ball at his feet, with major praise coming from his simple yet effective ball distribution. Many have said he would suit the North London side very well but it remains to be seen whether he will sign for the Gunners or not.

It is believed the deal to bring William Carvalho to the Emirates would be in the region of £25million and above. This comes following Sporting Lisbon’s third party ownership being restructured.

Carvalho would certainly be a good buy but I don’t see this rumour being true unfortunately. If you look at Arsenal’s midfield, it’s getting crowded. With Ozil returning today and Ramsey and Arteta not far off, there are about 6 or 7 players in contention to start in Arsenal’s midfield. Plus, the current form of Francis Coquelin may mean Wenger might not wish to part with such a large amount of money to sign someone who is not completely vital to his plans.