Former Arsenal captain Gilberto Silva has urged Brazil team-mate Felipe Melo to join the Gunners.

Arsene Wenger's side are reportedly interested in acquiring the accomplished holding midfielder from Serie A side Fiorentina.

And Gilberto, who played for Arsenal until leaving for Panathinaikos last summer, believes Melo and Arsenal would be a perfect match.

"We heard rumours and he asked me," Gilberto told BBC Sport.

"I said it's a fantastic club and if he's interested he should go without thinking.

"He is exactly what they need - a powerful player with quality. If they got him it would be great because he is a player they need at the moment.

"I'm sure if they got him it would be a good signing. I have told him Arsenal is a great club and I am sure next season they will improve."