Arsenal have turned their attention to Sporting Lisbon star William Carvalho after losing out to Manchester United in the battle for Southampton ace Morgan Schneiderlin, reports the Daily Star.
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The Red Devils are set to pay £20 million plus add ons for the France international, and this means that the Gunners have had to switch targets. This may not be terrible news though, with Carvalho currently showing his amazing ability in the Under 21s European Championships. The 23-year-old has been a key part of the Portugal side which has found itself in the final against Sweden on Tuesday.
A defensive midfielder who can also drive forward when needed, he also impressed for Sporting last season. He made 41 appearances for the Primeira Liga side last season, gaining valuable experience for such a young player. Available for just £20 million, the Portuguese may actually be a better acquisition than Schneiderlin as a result.
The North London club are in need of a central midfielder to partner Francis Coquelin in the middle of the park. The 24-year-old was a revelation in the last campaign after returning from a loan at Championship team Charlton in December. However, manager Arsene Wenger still needs a player to line up alongside him, with Santi Cazorla having to be out of position in the role last time round.