According to the Daily Star, Arsenal are leading the race over Manchester United to sign in-demand midfielder William Carvalho.

The 23-year-old William Carvalho is currently under contract with Sporting until 2018 has been on Arsenal’s radar for at least one year. A deep-lying midfielder, Carvalho has also attracted attention from Manchester United with both sides wanting to bring in a midfielder as a top priority.

Arsenal had previously been under negotiation with the Portuguese club, who asked for a fee of around £40m for the midfielder. However now, Arsenal looks to be heading to north London in a deal worth £19.8m, according to reports.

Carvalho, who despite being so young, has become one of Sporting’s most experienced and reliable players, could be allowed to leave if Arsenal offer a ‘player + cash’ deal, as the Portuguese side are looking to strengthen their attack.

The powerhouse began his career with Sporting as a youth player, and represented Portugal in the World Cup in Brazil last year. He has also just come off the back of playing in the Euro u21’s for Portugal, as an overage player.

The 23-year old’s appetite for the game is immense and he would certainly fit right in at the Emirates. Another advantage is that he can also function as a centre back, and would help Wenger with defensive options.

As for Manchester United, they look set to get one over Arsenal in the shape of Morgan Schneiderlin. The Frenchman is set to reject Arsenal in favour of United.