Arsenal make bid for Brazilian midfielder

Arsene Wenger has been credited with making an offer for Corinthians midfielder Paulinho as the Arsenal manager scours the market for further reinforcements.

The Frenchman has already secured the summer acquisitions of Germany international Lukas Podolski and Montpellier striker Oliver Giroud to bolster his goalscoring department, but is also keen for extra numbers in midfield.

This has led Wenger to Paulinho, a 23-year-old Brazil international who has made over 150 appearances for Corinthians and is also attracting interest from Inter Milan.

According to The Times, Arsenal made a bid of £9 million on Monday in the hope of luring Paulinho to the Emirates Stadium, but the outcome of this offer has yet to emerge.

Wenger is under pressure to make a statement in the transfer market this summer given the reservations of Arsenal captain Robin van Persie, although may still be unable to persuade the Dutchman to stay with the club.

Van Persie is out of contract in 12 months and has already indicated that he does not intend to extend his deal beyond its current terms.