Arsenal to make surprise bid for former captain Patrick Vieira

Inter Milan midfielder Patrick Vieira has been linked with a move back to the Premier League. The Frenchman spent nine trophy-laden seasons with Arsenal and captained them during their unbeaten 2003-04 season.

This summer the 33 year-old rejected a pay-as-you-play one-year contract from newly promoted Birmingham City. The 1998 World Cup winner was offered a similar one-year contract last week from his previous North London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs looked to be nearing a deal that would secure Vieira’s move to White Heart Lane until earlier today when Arsenal legend Ian Wright revealed rumours circling around the Gunners. On Wright’s Talksport radio show the former England international claimed Vieira could return to Arsenal on a one-year contract similar to those offered by Spurs and Birmingham City. “I’m hearing Vieira, pay-as-you-play back at Arsenal. That’s what I’m hearing and that’s what I’m hoping,” said Wright.

Arsenal have not won a trophy since Vieira’s exit after the 2005 season. The North London club have never truly filled the place of their French midfield enforcer.

Ex-Arsenal striker Thierry Henry certainly is not in favour of Vieira joining the Spurs. He said, “I am Arsenal through and through. I’d never advise anyone to sign for Tottenham… I can’t have Arsenal fans thinking I am helping Tottenham in any way.”

Vieira has not responded to the Spurs’ offer as he waits for an offer from Arsenal or other Premier League clubs, such as Fulham, who are reportedly interested in the Former Arsenal skipper.

Patrick Vieira is keen to leave Inter Milan on a free transfer after a lack of first team appearances and a injury filled season with the  Italian champions.