Gunners keep powder dry as Vieira appears Madrid-bound

PATRICK VIEIRA’S agent was locked in talks yesterday amid reports the Frenchman will be a Real Madrid player by the end of the week.

Reports from Spain claim Arsenal have admitted defeat in their battle to hold onto their captain and accepted a £22.1m bid.

Vieira’s representative, Steve Kutner, is believed to be putting the finishing touches to the deal but would not comment on the negotiations. Kutner said: “I cannot say anything more at the moment. I am in all-day meetings and do not know when they will finish.”