Vieira reveals Real rejection

The Senegal-born midfielder's loyalty to the Highbury cause is unquestioned, and he has ignored the regular calls from the Primeira Liga champions over the past few seasons. 

"I had an offer through Arsenal to go to Madrid and, when they come in, you have to think about it, look what is going on," Vieira told The Times.

"But I am really proud of the decision I made because it wasn't for money. Maybe in football, people are not used to players saying: 'I'm happy, I don't need to go for the money'.

"Every year, people said I was going somewhere else, but why should I?

"It is like anyone even if they are working in a normal office. Another company can come in and offer a better contract and he has the responsibility to go or stay.

"The decision might be made for their family and not for themselves.

"It might be made because you like to work with some people."

Vieira believes that fellow France international Thierry Henry feels likewise, and will snub the overtures from Chelsea's billionaire owner Roman Abramovich.

"Abramovich might want to buy Thierry, but are Arsenal going to let him go?" enquired the former Milan marauder.

"Does Thierry want to go?

"I don't think any amount of money will make a difference.

"Thierry is like me - he needs to be happy. He needs to feel he is working for success.

"People say money can buy anyone but I'm not so sure."