Last week, a move to Real Madrid was almost certain for Silva, with the 21-year old admitting it would be his dream to be able to work with Cristiano Ronaldo.
But now, reports in Spain are suggesting that Madrid are only prepared to pay up to 9.5m, which is not enough for Cruzeiro, who have set a 12m asking price.
This has allowed Arsenal to step in and and meet the Brazilian sides asking price.
It seems that a trio of Premier League teams reignited their interest after the complications with Real Madrid, the other two reported to be Manchester United and Chelsea, but it seems Arsenal were quickest off the mark.
Silva may well be able to be persuaded to make the move to London, with the chances of him being able to seal a deep-lying midfielder role at the club high.
