Vieira would be great for Real Madrid

Real Madrid's Zinedine Zidane says fellow France international midfielder Patrick Vieira of Arsenal would be a great recruit for the Spanish champions.

"I think Vieira is the world number one in his position and as I consider Real Madrid to be the world's number one club I think Patrick could play for us," Zidane was quoted as saying on Tuesday in an interview with sports daily L'Equipe.

"But it's up to the club to decide who they buy and who they don't", said Zidane, who stressed that he had not asked for his compatriot to be transferred from the London side.

There has been continuous media speculation since the end of last season surrounding the future of the 25-year-old Arsenal playmaker, who has been linked with Juventus and Real Madrid.

The English premier league club, who have made Vieira their vice-captain for this season, insist he is not for sale.

Zidane also said he didn't feel at his best at the moment and pleaded for more time to adapt to the Spanish league.

"It took me three months to feel comfortable when I joined Juventus. It might take a little bit longer here," he said.

"I don't feel free. I can see it in the way I move (on the pitch). I'm not saying I'm playing badly but I could play much better."

Zidane, who joined Real Madrid from Juventusin a world record $66 million transfer last July, has scored four goals for his new club who have had a disappointing start to their league campaign and trail leaders Deportivo Coruna by 10 points.

"This is not what you can expect from Real", Zidane said. "Two years ago with Juventus we were 10 points ahead and eventually Lazio were crowned champions."

"I have the feeling it's much easier to catch up 10 points here than it is in Italy. The only thing we can do is be patient. We can achieve great things with the team we have."

Real have made a blistering start to their Champions league campaign and were the first team through to the second phase after winning their first four matches.

However, their league form has suffered and they were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Celta Vigo on Sunday.