Arsenal would be right for Melo, says Gilberto

• Gilberto: Melo asked me about Arsenal
• Gunners rumoured to be keen on Brazil midfielder

The former Arsenal captain Gilberto Silva has urged his Brazil team-mate Felipe Melo to join the Gunners.

Arsène Wenger’s side are reportedly interested in acquiring the holding midfielder from Fiorentina and Gilberto, who played for Arsenal until leaving for Panathinaikos last summer, believes Melo and Arsenal would be a perfect match.

“We heard rumours and he asked me,” Gilberto told BBC Sport. “I said it’s a fantastic club and if he’s interested he should go without thinking. He is exactly what they need – a powerful player with quality. If they got him it would be great because he is a player they need at the moment.

“I’m sure if they got him it would be a good signing. I have told him Arsenal is a great club and I am sure next season they will improve.”