Report: Arsene Wenger keen to sign William Carvalho

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has reportedly turned his attention to Sporting Lisbon midfielder William Carvalho after completing their first transfer of the summer.

Petr Cech's move to the Gunners from Chelsea was confirmed on Monday, and one of the priorities for Wenger is now expected to be signing a central midfielder.

Francis Coquelin excelled after being handed the role of protecting the defence halfway through last season, but the Evening Standard claims that Carvalho remains a target for Wenger.

Reports emerged on Monday suggesting that Arsenal were not interested in Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal, and Wenger could now focus his efforts on winning the race to sign Carvalho, who has impressed for Portugal Under-21s at the European Championships.

Carvalho made 41 appearances in all competitions for Sporting last season.