Silva in Real admission

Gilberto Silva admits he is happy with life at Arsenal, but would consider the possibility of moving to Spain should the opportunity arise.

Silva moved to the Gunners for £4 million after the World Cup in 2002 and has since established himself as an integral part of Arsene Wenger's plans at Highbury.

However, the 27-year-old midfielder concedes that he would be hugely attracted by the prospect of a switch to reigning Spanish champions, Real Madrid.

"Signing for Arsenal was a good opportunity for me. England is a very important (footballing) country," said the World Cup winner.

"However, it's not such a good country sometimes because it is so cold!

"If one day I had the opportunity to play in Spain, for a big team, I would study the situation of course. Who knows?

"If Real Madrid were thinking about me it would make me very happy because they are one of the best teams in Europe, if not the best."

Silva also had lavish praise for Highbury chief Arsene Wenger, and revealed his enjoyment at playing under the Frenchman.

"Arsene Wenger is a winner as a coach," he continued to tell AS.

"He has won various titles, and working with him gives great calmness to the players."