Carvalho: I've always been fond of Arsenal

Sporting Lisbon midfielder William Carvalho says he is happy at his current club, but admits he has a soft spot in his heart for Premier League outfit Arsenal.

The 23-year-old has long been touted as one of the brightest prospects on the continent and was tipped for a move to Arsenal in the off-season prior to sustaining a fractured tibia in July.

Along with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United were also linked with a move for the Angola-born midfielder in the summer. However, it appears the Gunners have the inside track on a potential move for Carvalho.

When asked about his future plans, Carvalho told Portuguese newspaper A Bola: "I am where I want to be right now, which is Sporting, but if I ever do leave then it's a sign that my work here was well done.

"I dream of winning the Primeira Liga here.

"I prefer not to say too much, but there is a club with which I've always been fond of: Arsenal. Because of Thierry Henry, a player with whom I have always enjoyed watching.

"Maybe this is why I look with so much affection to the Premier League."