Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva has urged the club to sign Sporting Lisbon star Matheus Nunes.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was impressed with the Brazilian midfielder after last week's Champions League last-16 clash in the Portuguese capital, which resulted in a 5-0 win for the away side.

But Silva has urged his former club to beat their Premier League rivals to Nunes' signature.

"I think so," Silva told Portuguese newspaper Record about Nunes being ready to play for the Gunners.

"He plays in Portugal, he's super adapted to the European game model and that wouldn't be a barrier for him.

"The Premier League is the most difficult championship in the world, due to the quality of the players and teams and where the coaches are considered the best in the world.

"And when the praise comes from Pep Guardiola, the world stops to listen and attention is redoubled.

"And if Pep says that, it's because he understands that Matheus Nunes can reach that level. I hope to see Matheus Nunes soon in the Premier League.

"At Arsenal? Why not?"