Big Phil drops in on Gunners

Arsenal have invited Brazil’s World Cup-winning coach Luis Felipe Scolari to visit their state-of-the-art training headquarters in Hertfordshire where he is likely to take part in a cultural exchange of football ideas with the Gunners’ staff.

However reports that Scolari, popularly known as Big Phil, is set to join Arsene Wenger’s Premiership champions as a consultant may be premature.

A Highbury spokesperson said: “This is speculation and we never comment on that.”

Scolari reportedly claimed: “Arsene Wenger has invited me personally in an official capacity and I am very honoured. I think this role will be very productive for both parties.”

It is understood, however, that Scolari’s visit to London this weekend is principally his own initiative, although also an opportunity Arsenal – who have four Brazilian players in Gilberto Silva, Edu, Juan and Paulinho – did not want to miss.

Scolari is also believed to have plans to visit clubs in Spain next week.