Man Utd's Makelele interest to see Real move for Vieira

Manchester United's move for Claude Makelele is expected to reignite Real Madrid's interest in Arsenal midfielder Patrick Vieira.

If United prise Makelele away from the Bernabeu, Real sports chief Jorge Valdano will make finding a replacement for the Frenchman a priority.

It's been suggested in the Italian press that Real could offer Arsenal Luis Figo in part-exchange for Vieira at the end of this season.

Figo has admitted he'd like to play in England before the end of his career and reports state Real could offer the Portuguese ace plus £8 million to the Gunners for their club skipper.

Arsenal currently value Vieira in the £32 million range.