Arsenal angelt nach Maniche

[Savio]

Maniche's agent, Paulo Barbosa, claims Arsenal have opened talks with Porto about signing the midfielder.

If the Gunners do sign Maniche, 26, it will heighten rumours their captain Patrick Vieira is Real Madrid-bound.

"Yes, I can confirm the interest of Arsenal because negotiations have already begun with Porto," Barbosa told The People newspaper.

"We will have to see if the transfer can be completed as the amount Porto is asking for is not very high."

There is a huge question mark over Vieira's future at Highbury and Maniche would be seen as a straight replacement for the French international if he does move to Spain or Italy.

Maniche was one of the stars of Euro 2004 as he scored against Russia and Holland in helping his country to the final where they lost to Greece.

He was a surprise inclusion in the Portugal squad as he had not been picked for nine months.

He also produced an eye-catching performance for Porto in the 3-0 Champions League final win over Monaco.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger says he has received a pledge from Real Madrid that they have not approached Vieira - but speculation continues that the Frenchman is on his way to the Bernabeu.

BBC