Dein's Holiday Stalk: How Arsenal Kept Vieira from Real Madrid

Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein revealed he followed Patrick Vieira on holiday every year to block Real Madrid moves.

What happened. David Dein revealed he followed Patrick Vieira on holiday every year to prevent Real Madrid from signing him, as the Spanish club showed repeated interest during the early 2000s.

• Vieira was linked with Real Madrid during the Galacticos era.
• A move was close in 2004 when Vieira missed pre-season training.
• Dein's actions helped keep Vieira at Arsenal.

“Their president, Florentino Perez, used to say to me, you know, we like Patrick Vieira.”

— David Dein

Dein's revelation highlights the lengths club officials went to retain key players during the Galacticos era.

In this story

ArsenalReal Madrid

More to read

CaughtOffside

Arsenal and Tottenham among clubs in talks to sign 12-G/A attacking sensation

The Guardian

Football Daily | Vinícius Júnior and a fantasy world of transfers in the football lull

Football.London

Where Arsenal go next in transfer market as Vinicius Jr saga proves there is no need to panic

Football.London

Vinicius Jr sends 14-word message after rejecting Arsenal transfer for Real Madrid stay

Metro Football

Arsenal target Vinicius Junior makes final decision over Real Madrid future

Mirror Football

Vinicius Jr to Arsenal transfer saga reaches conclusion as Real Madrid star strikes agreement