Arsenal Step Up Veloso Interest

Arsenal are reportedly lining up a bid for Sporting defensive midfielder Miguel Veloso.

Aug 4, 2008 11:26:06 AM

Champions League : Cristiano Ronaldo - Miguel Veloso , Manchester United - Sporting Lisbon (PA)

Teams

Veloso has been a target for the Gunners for most of the summer as coach Arsène Wenger has been looking for a new midfield solution following the departures of Gilberto Silva and Mathieu Flamini.

It is believed that Wenger dispatched scouts to watch Veloso in action on multiple occasions during the last season, having received good notes of the quality of the 22-year-old, who represented Portugal at Euro 2008.

Veloso had a €30 million release clause attached to his contract until the 15th June, but Arsenal never confirmed their interest and the midfielder's move to North London failed to materialise.

Reports coming from Portugal suggest that Arsenal have already enquired Veloso to know his availability and what would be required to bring him to Emirates Stadium.

Sporting are allegedly willing to do business for Veloso for the right figure after learning of his interest in a new challenge. Arsenal have already begun talks over a transfer and an agreement could be reached in the next few days.

Luís Mira