Arsenal join Man. United and Barcelona in the race to sign Vitinha from Porto

Arsenal are reportedly ready to battle it out with Premier League rivals Manchester United for the signature of Porto midfielder Vitinha this summer.

The Gunners are targeting a midfielder and could be ready to trigger the Portugal international's £34million release clause.

The 22-year-old has already been attracting interest from some of Europe's elite clubs including United and LaLiga giants Barcelona.

Arsenal have now joined the race and look set to make a move for the youngster this summer, according to Portuguese newspaper Record.

Boss Mikel Arteta is eager to bolster his midfield this summer and has been linked with Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma who now looks set to join north London rivals Tottenham.

The Gunners have also been linked with Leicester City's Youri Tielemans, but those talks continue to drag on, meaning they may turn their attentions to Vitinha.

Vitinha, whose full name is Vitor Machado Ferreira, has been heavily linked with United in recent weeks after it was reported that talks were held between super-agent Jorge Mendes and the Red Devils.

The midfielder already has Premier League experience having spent the 2020-21 season on loan at Wolves.

Due to constraints brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, Wolves turned down the chance to buy him for £17m - but he could now make a return to the Premier League.

Vitinha shone last season having played a key role in delivering the Portuguese title to Porto.

He made 47 appearances in all competitions last season, finishing with four goals and five assists.

As a result the youngster has also established himself in Portugal's senior team as they build momentum ahead of the World Cup in Qatar later this year.