Former Arsenal midfielder Gilberto Silva revealed Brazil team-mate Felipo Melo asked him what it would be like to join the Gunners.

Gilberto, now with Panathinaikos, said:

We heard rumours and he asked me. I said it’s a fantastic club and if he’s interested he should go without thinking. He is exactly what they need – a powerful player with quality.

If they got him it would be great because he is a player they need at the moment. I’m sure if they got him it would be a good signing. I have told him Arsenal is a great club and I am sure next season they will improve.