Juve tune in to Vieira soap opera but Arsenal want £15m

For the umpteenth summer running, it appears that the soap opera known as the Patrick Vieira transfer saga is, indeed, up and running again after Juventus learned that the Arsenal captain may be receptive to a move after all.

The problem over any deal remains the huge disparity in what Juventus are willing to offer and what Arsenal are prepared to accept but the news that Vieira may, once more, countenance leaving will offer renewed encouragement to his suitors.

Arsenal also appear adamant that they do not want to sell the 29-year-old and the most likely scenario remains that he will extend his nine-year stay at Highbury. But if Juventus make them an acceptable offer - and they are yet to lodge a formal bid - it appears possible that a deal could go through.

Vieira has two years left on his current deal and there were declarations after the FA Cup final that he would be offered a new contract. But he was disappointed with his form last season and may embrace a fresh challenge having come so close last year to joining Real Madrid, especially if Arsenal agree to sell him.

Juventus have discussed offering £5m plus the Ghanaian midfielder Stephen Appiah for Vieira's services, but Arsenal are understood to expect upwards of £15m, and are only interested in the right-back turned central defender Jonathan Zebina if players are being offered. Juventus, who are keen for a deal to be concluded within the next week, are unlikely to want to lose the French international.

Chelsea, meanwhile, yesterday announced that Frank Arnesen will join them on 1 September following his controversial switch from Tottenham. Chelsea were forced to pay compensation of up to £5m for Arnesen after being accused of making an illegal approach for Spurs' sporting director.

There has been renewed speculation that Chelsea may again attempt to lure Ronaldinho. It had been reported that Chelsea were planning to offer Barcelona £57m for the Brazilian, but this has been denied by all parties. Instead, it is understood Ronaldinho has agreed to sign a new contract that could keep him at Barcelona for the rest of his career.

Chelsea have continued talks with Manchester City and Lyon over the signing of Shaun Wright-Phillips and Michael Essien respectively. Both deals should conclude next week.