Arsenal will have to drop out of the race for 21 year old defensive midfielder Lucas Silva who is closer and closer to Real Madrid. Currently playing for Cruzeiro, the Brazilian was linked to several Premier League teams including Manchester United and Liverpool. Unfortunately his heart is with Real Madrid who have the best chance to sign the youngster. Silva is under contract with his current club until 2017 but could be looking to leave for Europe sometime soon.

Silva has only played for Cruzeiro up until now and managed to make 65 appearances for the South American club. According to the Daily Star, he impressed through his accurate tackles and excellent pace. Silva would have been an excellent transfer for Arsenal who need a new defensive midfielder. He is young, eager to prove himself and very talented. The fact that he is looking to get to Madrid is a problem though, because concentration and drive are low if he is thinking of another club. Wenger will want to avoid situations like those encountered with Fabregas, Vermaelen or Song who were out of form during their last months at the club. Fortunately, Arsenal have a few alternatives to Silva. Schneiderlin could come to Emirates either in January or in July. It is unfortunate though that Silva is so set on Real. He would have had a bright future playing for Arsenal.