Arsenal linked with £24m swoop for Sporting Lisbon midfielder

Arsenal are preparing a £24million bid for Sporting Lisbon midfielder William Carvalho, according to O Jogo.

The Gunners are on the hunt for a defensive midfielder this summer and have already shown an interest in Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin and Real Madrid's Sami Khedira.

However, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is now reportedly making a move for Sporting's Carvalho.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season, becoming a regular for Sporting and making his international debut. His displays attracted firm interest from Manchester United.

Carvalho's release clause is said to be around £35m, but Arsenal are hoping that the offer of £24m, in one single payment, will persuade Sporting to part with their star midfielder.