William Carvalho: I'm not joining Arsenal

Portuguese international midfielder William Carvalho has effectively ended the Gunners' pursuit of his signature, after telling reporters today that he will be staying at Sporting Lisbon for the remainder of the season.

The immensely talented young starlet, who has put in some impressive performances in recent months, has attracted numerous sides including that of Arsenal and their manager Arsene Wenger.

The Frenchman has deployed his top scout to monitor Carvalho's progress on three occasions and each time the midfielder has caught the eye.

Despite a reported 25 million euro bid from the Gunners, Carvalho has told the media that he's staying put.

Carvalho responded to queries from a reporter: "I am under contract with Sporting and I'm a Sporting player. There is no way I can say I am going to leave. I am fine at Sporting."

This will be important news for Juventus, who are apparently in the race to sign Carvalho in the January transfer window.