by Lewis Ambrose

An Arsenal scout was present at Portugal’s crushing 5-0 defeat of Germany in the semi-final of the u21 Euros in Czech Republic on Sunday, possibly to watch William Carvalho.

Portugal midfielder William Carvalho won man of the match from O Jogo for another impressive display and Arsenal sent someone over to watch him.

Scouts from around 50 other major European clubs were present, but maybe Arsenal have now seen enough of Carvalho to be convinced of his abilities.

The Sporting Lisbon midfielder has been linked with a move to Emirates Stadium in the past, excessively so last summer, and rumours are bound to pick up pace this year.

A year ago it was also said that the midfielder wanted the move to happen but Arsenal didn’t go for him – or at least not in a way that made it happen.

Need

Arsenal are yet to sign a midfielder this summer, and it looks like one is needed. Morgan Schneiderlin is set to join Man Utd after Arsenal dropped out of the race for his signature, and the alternatives are running out.

Having won 10 caps for the full national side it is likely Carvalho will move to a bigger league sooner or later.

Despite only playing against young men Carvalho has had a thoroughly impressive tournament for Portugal u21s, who will face Sweden in the final, and maybe it has been enough to tempt Arsenal into a move.

Although the midfielder has a €45M buyout clause it is thought that he would be available for less, and would have to be for Arsenal to be willing to do a deal.