Gunners deny Guti switch to fill Vieira void

ARSENAL have ruled out a move for Real Madrid midfielder Guti, despite the player admitting he would be keen on joining the Gunners.

Guti, 28, revealed through his agent earlier this week that he would like a move to Highbury but he does not figure among Arsene Wenger’s targets.

The utility player, who has featured in midfield and attacking roles at the Bernabeu, has not been able to mail down a first-team place with Madrid, and the Spanish giants are prepared to let him leave for the right price.

Meanwhile, Fredi Kanoute claims his Mali teammate Mahamadou Diarra would be the perfect replacement for Patrick Vieira.

Wenger has been linked with a move for Diarra in the wake of Vieira’s shock £13.7m sale to Juventus.

The 24-year-old Lyon midfielder shares similarities with the former Arsenal captain, and Tottenham striker Kanoute believes he would be a welcome addition at Highbury.

“There is a little bit of a comparison with Vieira. They both have good ability on the ball, they defend well and they are strong,” he said.

“He’s also a competitive guy and really likes a good challenge. He is the complete player, he recovers well and chases a lot of balls. His passing skills are also very good.”

Diarra helped Lyon to the French league title last season - along with Chelsea target Michael Essien - but is contracted to the club until 2009.