Brazilian offers midfield Silva lining to Vieira cloud

WORLD CUP winner Gilberto Silva is ready to shoulder the responsibility in Arsenal’s midfield if Patrick Vieira completes his move to Real Madrid.

The Spanish club, who are also said to be interested in Michael Owen, are confident Vieira can be persuaded to move to La Liga by the weekend.

A fee has not yet been agreed between the clubs, with several million pounds - as well as the method of payment - understood to be in dispute.