Wenger in shock move for Silvestre

Arsenal are expected to sign Mikael Silvestre today after Arsene Wenger made a surprise bid for the Manchester United defender.

Silvestre, 31, was ready to join Manchester City after being told he did not feature in United's first-team plans.

But Arsenal bossWenger has offered the France international the chance to resurrect his career at the club - and the prospect of Champions League football.

He sees Silvestre as the man to partner his compatriot William Gallas at the heart of the Arsenal defence, which is lacking in experience.

Silvestre was understood to have agreed to join City but pulled out once he knew of Arsenal's interest.

He could be in the team to face Fulham on Saturday if the £750,000 move goes ahead.